US DoD Adds Kraus Hamdani K1000ULE Drone to Blue UAS Cleared List

The US Department of Defense has included Kraus Hamdani Aerospace’s K1000ULE uncrewed aerial system (UAS) on its Blue UAS Cleared List and Blue UAS Select List, designating it as a secure, NDAA-compliant drone for immediate procurement. This move follows a $20 million contract awarded in October 2024 to deploy the system with the US Army Pacific 1st Multi-Domain Task Force and Joint Special Operations Command.

This certification highlights the K1000ULE as the longest-endurance and longest-range drone in its category, with zero cyber vulnerabilities confirmed through independent assessments and an Authority to Operate. For drone professionals and military operators, it signifies a reliable, field-proven platform that advances scalable autonomy in contested environments, as detailed in the Kraus Hamdani Aerospace announcement.

K1000ULE Drone Technical Features

Kraus Hamdani Aerospace designed the K1000ULE as a fully electric drone with a silent acoustic signature, eliminating the need for fuel and minimizing logistical requirements. The system deploys from box to flight in approximately 10 minutes, supporting runway-independent operations.

It incorporates multi-payload capacity and artificial intelligence (AI)-driven mission capabilities, enabling seamless integration across domains. The drone also serves as an autonomous communications gateway, extending voice and data waveforms alongside Tactical Data Links.

Regulatory Compliance and Security

The Blue UAS Cleared List inclusion confirms the K1000ULE’s compliance with the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), ensuring it meets stringent US DoD standards for security and interoperability. Independent evaluations identified no cyber vulnerabilities, allowing for an Authority to Operate that facilitates rapid deployment.

“This achievement validates the aircraft and the complete autonomy and software stack behind it,” stated Kraus Hamdani Aerospace Co-founder and CTO Stefan Kraus. “It is secure, interoperable, and field-proven with the Army, Navy, MARSOC, and allied forces. We are ready to meet the DOD’s call for scalable operational autonomy today.”

Operational Use Cases for Long-Range Drones

As a dual-use UAS, the K1000ULE excels in continuous missions within contested environments, providing sustained operations without refueling. Its AI engine, KHAi, delivers real-time decision support, aligning with frameworks like Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) and Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2).

The drone’s capabilities extend to bridging communications, making it ideal for multi-domain task forces and special operations. The recent $20 million Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) contract underscores its readiness for immediate fielding with US military units.

Industry Impact on Drone Procurement

This listing positions Kraus Hamdani Aerospace as a key player in the US drone market, offering a platform that addresses operational challenges through innovation. By achieving Blue UAS status, the K1000ULE sets a benchmark for long-endurance drones, potentially influencing future procurements and encouraging adoption among allied forces.

The system’s emphasis on autonomy and minimal footprint could streamline logistics for drone professionals in both military and commercial sectors, fostering broader integration of AI in UAS operations.

DroneXL’s Take

While the K1000ULE’s addition to the Blue UAS list marks a significant step forward for secure, long-endurance drones, it raises questions about how such advancements might influence civilian drone regulations and export controls in the coming years. Could this technology accelerate the adoption of AI-driven autonomy in recreational piloting, or will it remain primarily military-focused amid growing concerns over data privacy and airspace management? We invite DroneXL readers to share their thoughts on the potential benefits and challenges in the comments below.