The United States military showcased a new small unmanned aircraft system during the multinational BRIGHT STAR 25 exercises, held in Talet Al Keif, Egypt, on August 30, 2025.
According to the US Air Force, the 1st Special Operations Wing demonstrated the Edge 130 Blue, a military-grade tricopter designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.
Edge 130 Blue Features
The Edge 130 Blue weighs only 1,200 grams and can remain airborne for more than two hours in forward flight, achieving what developers call industry-leading endurance among Blue UAS-approved platforms.
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The aircraft combines three rotors with fixed wings for efficient flight and can withstand winds of up to 40 miles per hour. Its configuration allows assembly in just one minute by a single operator, reinforcing tactical mobility in field conditions.
Other highlights include:
- Vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) and hover capability;
- Modular payloads, swappable without tools;
- Secure integration into existing defense systems;
- Lightweight construction to enhance operational effectiveness in contested environments.
Strategic Importance
The drone’s primary mission is to provide real-time aerial imagery and enhance the situational awareness of troops in combat. By bridging the gap between small short-range quadcopters and larger drones, the Edge 130 Blue emerges as a practical solution for rapid operations with lower logistical demands.
BRIGHT STAR 25
BRIGHT STAR 25 is one of the largest joint military exercises in the Middle East, bringing together US and partner forces to test interoperability in complex scenarios. The debut of the Edge 130 Blue was considered one of the key highlights of the event, showcasing the Pentagon’s effort to integrate cutting-edge unmanned technologies into multinational operations.
Source: X @CENTCOM. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
