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Teledyne FLIR upgrades Rogue 1 drone with extended range, new payload

May 20, 2026 6:45 AM

Teledyne FLIR Defense, a unit of Teledyne Technologies (NYSE: TDY), announced the release of Rogue 1 Block 2, an upgraded version of its lethal unmanned aerial system at SOF Week.

The Block 2 upgrade doubles the operating range to more than 20 kilometers and introduces a new anti-armor payload option using shape charge jet technology. The system includes redesigned propellers optimized for long transit and fast attack patterns, along with advanced battery cell technology that adds 20% more endurance.

According to the company, the upgrades incorporate feedback from two years of customer use with the U.S. Marine Corps Organic Precision Fires-Light program and U.S. Special Operations Command Ground Organic Precision Strike Systems programs.

"Over the last two years, Rogue 1 has delivered critical successes for customers, and the Block 2 upgrades represent the next evolution of that mission," said Tung Ng, Vice President of Unmanned Systems North America at Teledyne FLIR Defense.

Additional enhancements include track landing capabilities, improved mapping and visualization, and enhanced GPS-denied navigation using thermal and daylight cameras. The system features dual-band radio support for improved range and electronic warfare resilience, along with more robust onboard computing for advanced autonomy functions.

Other improvements include enhanced thermal management, multi-band antenna capabilities, durability enhancements with redesigned tactical packaging, better drop survivability, and a new Android-based ground control system.

The company stated that Rogue 1 Block 2 is available for customer orders, with deliveries scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026. The information was provided in a company press release.

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