Spain’s Ministry of Defence (MINISDEF) has awarded a contract worth up to €18 million ($18.7 million USD) to U.S. drone manufacturer Skydio to supply advanced Skydio X10D autonomous drones to the Spanish Armed Forces. This deal, secured in partnership with Spain’s Paukner Group, marks a significant step in the country’s military modernization efforts.
Table of Contents
Spain’s Military Boost
Built for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, the Skydio X10D is a cutting-edge small uncrewed aerial system (sUAS) designed to adapt to the demands of modern warfare. With AI-powered autonomy, advanced sensors, and a flexible modular design, it brings a new level of efficiency and intelligence to battlefield operations.
By deploying these drones, the Spanish Army will be able to strengthen national defense efforts—enhancing force protection, improving reconnaissance, securing facilities, monitoring crowds, and identifying potential threats with greater precision and speed.
Skydio’s Growing Military Presence
Skydio has rapidly grown into an industry leader in military drone technology. Its drones are used by all military forces among the 25 U.S. allied nations and every branch of the U.S. Department of Defense.
CEO Adam Bry emphasized that the X10D’s small size, AI capabilities, autonomous functions, and durability make it an ideal fit for Spain’s human-machine teaming operations.
A Shift in Military Strategy
The rise of small autonomous drones reflects a broader shift in global defense strategy. Their effectiveness in modern combat has been evident, particularly in the Russia-Ukraine war, where they play a crucial role in reconnaissance and battlefield coordination.
Spain’s acquisition of the Skydio X10D aligns with this shift, positioning the country at the forefront of autonomous defense capabilities.
About Skydio and Paukner Group
Skydio is a U.S. drone manufacturer founded in 2014 that makes AI controlled autonomous flight technology. Worldwide, the company has delivered over 45,000 drones to the military, commercial and public sector organizations.
Paukner Group will assist the Skydio in distribution and deployment of the Spanish military with their drones, 50 years of experience in the Spanish defense sector.
The contract stands as a sign of things to come in the development of military operations around the world as autonomous systems assume a greater role in national security and defense modernization.
Read More: Best Propellers for DJI NEO in 2025
