Test of an AI-powered drone network

The German Armed Forces have successfully continued their tests of unmanned systems at the Ohrdruf training area. The goal is to provide the 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania with an operational reconnaissance and strike system (AWV) in 2027 for the deployment of AI-supported drone networks. The test results are positive. The project is on schedule.

Various reconnaissance and loitering munition systems were tested. After the first series of tests was conducted in early December 2025 at the Army Combat Training Center on the Altmark military training area, more complex scenarios were now tested. The AWV successfully engaged static and dynamic targets in realistic scenarios. At the same time, operational principles and tactical procedures for the Bundeswehr’s new drone forces were tested. This is another important step toward the timely reinforcement of Panzerbrigade 45 with drone forces.

During the testing, the reconnaissance and strike system consisted of various reconnaissance drones, AI-supported command software, and so-called loitering munitions. Loitering munitions are defined as munitions that circle over a target area for an extended period until a target is assigned to them via a data link and displayed to the operator. The operator then has the option of deploying the loitering munition against the identified target. The AI-supported systems can subsequently operate autonomously. This makes them particularly resistant to electronic jamming by the enemy.

The testing was conducted by the Bundeswehr Planning Office in close cooperation with the newly established Bundeswehr Innovation Center and the German Army. The Command & Control Unmanned Management System Bundeswehr (C2-UMS Bw), developed independently by the Bundeswehr, was once again a central element of the testing, as it had been during the tests in December 2025. This software allows various types of drones and systems to be combined into a single operational system and integrated into the Bundeswehr’s digital communications network.

The Bundeswehr thus operates in a highly dynamic development environment. It learns from operational experiences in current conflicts and leverages state-of-the-art technological capabilities in a networked manner.

About the Bundeswehr Planning Office

The Planning Office is part of the Bundeswehr’s Support Domain and is a higher command authority with offices in Berlin, Bonn, and Taufkirchen. During periods of expansion and development of the Bundeswehr, it ensures joint Bundeswehr planning from a single source for all military and civilian organizational areas. In addition, the Planning Office’s scientific support extends to all areas of Bundeswehr operations.