Performance Drone Works :: Advanced Multi-Mission Aerial Robotic Systems (Drones) for Military, Government & Public Safety

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is a U.S. defense technology company headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, specializing in the design, engineering, and mass production of advanced multi-mission aerial robotic systems (drones) for military, government, and public safety applications. Founded by elite drone racing engineers, U.S. Special Operations veterans, and technologists with roots in the Drone Racing League (DRL), PDW focuses on delivering scalable, attritable, and high-performance unmanned aerial systems (UAS) that provide decisive airpower at the tactical edge. The company bridges consumer-grade drone racing heritage with combat-proven requirements, emphasizing speed, agility, modularity, and resilience in contested environments.

PDW’s solutions are built for Troops in Contact (TiC) and large-scale combat operations, prioritizing rapid deployment, low-cost attrition, and integration of advanced AI, sensors, and mission software. The company has secured contracts across all branches of the U.S. military and continues to expand production capacity through initiatives like Drone Factory 01.

Key robot-based (aerial robotic) products include:

• C100 Multi-Mission Quadcopter: A compact, high-performance tactical UAS designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and strike missions. It features rapid deployment, advanced autonomy, and modular payloads for real-time intelligence gathering.
• Attritable Strike Drone: A low-cost, expendable platform optimized for high-volume production and precision strike capabilities. It entered production in 2026 and is designed for mass deployment in contested environments.
• PDW CORE & PDW SIM: Mission planning software and high-fidelity simulators that support operator training, autonomous behaviors, and operational planning. These tools enable rapid skill development and mission rehearsal.
• Multi-Mission Payloads (MMP) and Range Extension Kits: Modular enhancements that expand sensor, communication, and endurance capabilities across the platform family.

PDW emphasizes full-stack solutions — from hardware and software to training and sustainment — to deliver scalable airpower. The company recently raised over $110 million in Series B financing to expand production and capabilities. Its veteran-led team and racing heritage enable rapid iteration and combat-effective designs.