AeroVironment has released Halo_Shield, a modular, distributed counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) designed to detect, track, identify, and defeat threats including Group 1-5 UAS, drone swarms, and subsonic cruise missiles. The system targets protection for critical infrastructure, military installations, borders, and deployed forces.
Announced on April 28, 2026, from Arlington, Virginia, Halo_Shield features a tile-based layered defense architecture with Sentinel, Terrestrial, Nautical, Aerial, and Celestial tiles. Each tile combines specialized sensors, effectors, and command-and-control from AeroVironment and its suppliers, unified by a central battle manager.
It integrates AeroVironment technologies such as the LOCUST laser weapon system, Switchblade loitering munitions, and Titan 4 and Titan MS RF C-UAS systems. The open, scalable design supports plug-and-play deployment in portable kits, compatible with existing customer systems, and requires minimal training.
The Sentinel tile provides point defense against Group 1-5 UAS, while the Aerial tile offers elevated sensing for earlier warnings over complex terrain. Halo_Shield extends protection beyond point defense and enables integration with offensive capabilities to counter threats before launch.