L3Harris introduces the "Wolf Pack" — swarm drones with low cost and high efficiency

 

Wolf Pack

L3Harris has introduced a new series of unmanned aerial vehicles called the "Wolf Pack", which is designed to attack an enemy using a swarm of inexpensive paired kinetic and non-kinetic ammunition. This approach puts defenders in front of the need to spend more expensive funds to repel relatively cheap threats, which makes the concept economically beneficial.

These munitions fall into the category of so-called "Launched Effects", that is, disposable or returnable aircraft with a long range and low cost. Such systems make it possible to create an "accessible mass", that is, large-scale attacks using a large number of autonomous devices, which significantly increases the efficiency of operations at relatively low costs.

What is included in the "Wolf Pack"?

The series includes two main types:

- Red Wolf is a kinetic munition designed to directly hit targets.

- Green Wolf is a non—kinetic variant that can be used for electronic warfare, reconnaissance, or jamming.

Both types can be launched as a swarm from various platforms, including aircraft, ships, and ground installations. All devices are equipped with autonomous software that allows them to interact with each other and coordinate actions in real time.

L3Harris is not the only company developing such technologies. Similar developments are being conducted by:

- Anduril Industries — with projects such as Altius and other kamikaze drones.

- Lockheed Martin — with systems integrated into fifth-generation combat systems.

- General Atomics — with unmanned solutions based on MQ-9 and other platforms.

- Zone 5 Industries and other lesser-known companies — within the framework of specialized programs .

However, the Wolf Pack stands out for its scalability, low cost, and flexible application, which makes it particularly attractive to military personnel seeking cost-effective solutions on the battlefield.

According to the company's representatives, such systems have already passed flight tests and are capable of operating at a distance of up to 200 nautical miles (~370 km) with high speed and flight duration (up to 60 minutes or more) . This opens up opportunities for the Wolf Pack to be used in various scenarios, including reconnaissance, air defense suppression, sabotage operations, and pinpoint strikes.

The creation of the "Wolf Pack" from L3Harris is an important step in the development of the concept of autonomous swarm systems that change the rules of combat. Due to the combination of low cost, autonomy and high efficiency, such munitions are becoming a key element of the future of the US armed forces and their allies.