Exail’s DriX H-9 Selected for Counter-UAS Research by Leading Defense Organization

17 April 2026

DriX H-9 uncrewed surface vehicle. (Image credit: Exail)

Exail has secured a new contract for its long-range uncrewed surface vehicle (USV), the DriX H-9, with a leading defense research organization. This is the second DriX H-9 order in just a few months for defense applications, confirming the growing momentum of Exail’s USV solutions in the defense sector.

The DriX H-9, delivered by Exail, will be equipped by the customer for Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (CUAS) missions, integrating advanced sensor technologies to detect, track, and mitigate aerial threats. The system will leverage proven CUAS technology initially developed for land platforms and now adapted for the maritime domain.

With this new contract, Exail continues to expand the operational versatility of the DriX Series, further demonstrating its ability to serve both commercial and defense applications, from hydrography to maritime security and domain awareness.

Building on the proven capabilities of the DriX platform, the H-9 combines long-range autonomy, high payload capacity, and modular design—enabling rapid integration of new mission systems to support emerging naval and multi-domain operations.

“This new contract illustrates how Exail’s uncrewed surface vessels are becoming key enablers for future defense concepts. By adapting the DriX Series to new missions such as CUAS, we’re demonstrating how uncrewed systems can enhance operational agility and resilience across all domains,” said Marine Slingue, President of Exail Defense Systems Inc.