The Falcon Peak 26.2 experiment, focused on testing technologies to counter small unmanned aerial systems, is being conducted at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona from August 31 through September 25, 2026, with the latest round of testing held on September 21, 2026.
As part of the experiment, drones developed by Perennial Autonomy were tested. Judging by the photographs, the systems included the company’s Bumblebee-series interceptor drones. They are used as kinetic interceptors against airborne targets as part of the Low Collateral Defeat concept, which aims to neutralize drones while minimizing the risk of collateral damage.
According to the published photographs, the aerial targets used during the tests included civilian DJI Mavic 3 quadcopters manufactured by the Chinese company DJI. Other unmanned aircraft were also used, along with the E-flite Opterra radio-controlled aircraft.
The Opterra is a flying-wing unmanned aircraft that was used as an aerial target. It is made of lightweight Z-Foam reinforced with carbon-fiber components and features multiple mounting points for cameras.
The use of DJI Mavic 3 drones in a U.S. defense experiment is a notable detail. The United States has been tightening restrictions on Chinese-made drones and components in recent years, citing security concerns and dependence on Chinese technology. At the same time, Chinese-made Mavic 3 drones continue to be used as readily available and widely distributed targets for testing counter-small-UAS systems.
Falcon Peak 26.2 is conducted by the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM). The experiment is intended to demonstrate new technologies for countering small unmanned aircraft, expand Low Collateral Defeat capabilities, strengthen cooperation with mission partners, and provide developers with immediate feedback.
The results of the tests are intended to help accelerate the maturation of new technologies for potential use across the U.S. Department of War.
Perennial Autonomy’s drones at Cibola Range, JERC Two, Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, on September 21, 2026, during Falcon Peak 26.2.
