Defense News Digest: March 2025

Welcome to IDGA’s monthly news roundup. For over two decades, the Institute for Defense and Government Advancement has served as a non-partisan events and thought leadership organization connecting the Defense and Security communities interested in solving high-level challenges. Now, through this weekly series, we look to educate the community on the latest research, program updates and news in the defense and government sector.

While the Air Force’s NGAD announcement captured top headlines in the defense community this March, there were still several newsworthy items across domains. This month we will examine four stories you might have missed, including one-way drone prototypes, an update on the Army's latest hypersonic weapon, and much more.

DIU Picks Four Companies for One-Way Drone Prototypes

The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) has awarded contracts to four companies for the development of long-range, one-way drones as part of the Artemis program. The companies selected include U.S.-based AeroVironment, Dragoon, Auterion, and Swan, each partnering with Ukrainian drone manufacturers. The program aims to deliver ground-launched drones capable of flying between 50 and 300+ km at low altitudes, designed to operate in environments with heavy electronic warfare interference. The drones will also be capable of carrying various payloads, including kinetic and electronic warfare options.

The Artemis initiative responds to lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict, where drones are critical in frontline operations but face challenges from electronic disruptions. The goal is to rapidly deliver low-cost, adaptable UAV platforms that meet the military’s needs for speed and operational flexibility. Prototypes are expected to be completed and evaluated by May 2025, with the program aiming to provide multiple options for the Department of Defense. The drones are designed to avoid detection through terrain mapping and low-altitude flying techniques.

Oshkosh Defense Unveils Variant of Marines Remote Fire Vehicle

Oshkosh Defense unveiled an advanced version of its ROGUE-Fires system this month. The Remotely Operated Ground Unit for Expeditionary Fires (ROGUE-Fires) is a mobile, long-range missile platform carried by the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV). This new variant features a multirocket launch system, enhancing its payload-agnostic capabilities, and incorporates autonomous technology for resupply and logistics operations.

Originally focused on launching the Naval Strike Missile for anti-ship operations, the updated ROGUE-Fires now includes a multiple launch rocket system, offering even greater flexibility for the Marines. Oshkosh has also integrated a hybrid-electric powertrain for silent operations and fuel efficiency. The system’s autonomous features are based on software used in the Army’s Expedient Leader Follower and Autonomous Ground Resupply programs, allowing for self-driving off-road capabilities.

The Marine Corps initially awarded Oshkosh a $40 million contract for the unmanned missile launcher after a successful prototyping phase in 2023. The system is designed to enhance the Marines’ operational flexibility and firepower, particularly in littoral regions where quick, long-range strikes are crucial. The first test fire of the Naval Strike Missile from the platform took place in 2020, and the system aligns with Marine warfighting strategies focused on mobility, rapid sea control, and denial of access. 

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Update on Army’s Dark Eagle Hypersonic Weapon

The U.S. Army's Dark Eagle hypersonic weapon program is awaiting approval from senior leaders before it can move forward with fielding plans. Lt. Gen. Robert Rasch, the director of the Army’s Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO), stated that while testing has progressed, decisions on when the weapon will be fielded and achieve initial operational capability (IOC) are still pending. The program, a joint effort between the Army and Navy, has faced delays due to testing challenges, including a mechanical issue with the launcher.

Despite these setbacks, the Army and Navy completed a successful end-to-end flight test in December 2024. The Dark Eagle system, designed to fire hypersonic rounds at speeds over 3,800 mph and within a range of 1,725 miles, uses a land-based truck launcher. The Navy version employs the same hypersonic glide body missile but with a different launcher for maritime use. The first Army unit, the 1st Multi-Domain Task Force, had received components and training in 2023 in anticipation of becoming the first operational unit but is still awaiting final deployment. Decisions on the timeline for fielding and IOC are still under review by the new leadership following the transition from the Biden to Trump administration. 

Defense Secretary Hegseth Signs Memo on Software Acquisition Overhaul

In early March, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed a new memo directing the Pentagon to expand the use of the Software Acquisition Pathway (SWP) to accelerate software procurement and reduce bureaucratic hurdles. The move is aimed at getting cutting-edge technology into warfighters' hands faster by leveraging private-sector best practices.

The initiative emphasizes using Commercial Solutions Openings (CSOs) and Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs) as the default contracting methods, allowing the DoD to bypass lengthy acquisition processes. The Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) is expected to take on a greater role in software procurement, with a surge in demand for its projects.

Currently, 82 programs operate under SWP, covering areas from command and control to cyber and embedded weapon systems. The Pentagon expects this number to grow as it refines implementation strategies over the next 30 days. The goal is to streamline software deployment from months to days and empower service acquisition officials to adopt more agile procurement methods.

Officials stress that this shift will cut out bureaucratic “middlemen,” ensuring software is sourced directly from software companies.