European Defence Agency Launches Kamikaze Drone Challenge

The European Defence Agency (EDA) has launched a competition to test next-generation single-use unmanned aerial systems in realistic combat conditions as European militaries push to expand drone warfare capabilities.

Called the “Sentinel Strike Challenge,” the 2-million-euro ($2.3 million) initiative will evaluate loitering munitions with a weight of up to 25 kilograms (55 pounds) and a maximum range of 40 kilometers (25 miles).

The effort is managed through the agency’s Hub for European Defence Innovation.

The Sentinel Strike Challenge

EDA said the program aims to generate “reliable and comparable evidence” on the “performance, resilience, reliability, and safety” of the platforms while supporting future capability planning among member states.

In addition to precision attack, each suicide drone must also integrate navigation and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance functions.

Trials will involve the full strike process, including mission planning, launch, target tracking, neutralization, and post-operation assessment.

Award By 2027

EDA noted that the initiative will be conducted in two phases, beginning with the review of technical proposals.

Up to 10 entrants will receive a total of 200,000 euros ($234,725) from that stage, with the five leading choices to advance to live demonstrations.

The final experimentation campaign is scheduled for September and October during a Portuguese Army-led multinational exercise at the Santa Margarida Military Training Area in Santarém, Portugal, later this year.

Applications close in June, with winners expected to be announced in early 2027.