Dzyne Technologies, a company specialising in military drones and based in Irvine, has expressed optimism regarding the potential benefits of the incoming administration of Donald Trump, citing anticipated government efficiencies in defence spending. The company's Chief of Government Affairs, Joe Francescon, articulated this sentiment in a conversation with the Orange County Business Journal shortly after the presidential election on November 7. “I think it will be very positive for us,” Francescon stated, highlighting the administration's focus on optimising the Defence Department budget.
Francescon noted that drones, particularly those developed by Dzyne, represent a safer and more economical alternative to manned missions. He elaborated on this point by discussing the company’s Ultra drone, an autonomous long-range model capable of flying continuously for over three days. This type of technology, according to Francescon, offers significant cost savings and allows military personnel to engage in missions better suited to their skills. Dzyne finds itself at the forefront of a burgeoning industry, addressing a national discourse about the future of military aviation in an era where budgetary constraints and the need for efficiency are prominent.
Dzyne’s Ultra drone was developed in collaboration with the Air Force Research Laboratory. In addition to the Ultra, the company has introduced Leap, a light aircraft designed for autonomous takeoff and landing, and ground-based solutions to counter hostile drone threats, such as the mobile Shield system. The firm’s portfolio includes collaborations with high-profile clients, including DARPA, NASA, and the Air Force Research Laboratory.
The drone industry is currently experiencing significant competition, with Southern California home to several prominent players. One of its most notable rivals is Anduril Industries, which offers a broad spectrum of military technology, including the reusable Roadrunner drone. However, Francescon highlighted Dzyne’s aim to produce more economically sustainable drones priced between $10,000 to $20,000, contrasting with the higher costs associated with Anduril's products.
Dzyne’s leadership team features experienced individuals with extensive connections in Washington, DC, including former Attorney General Bill Barr and Christopher Miller, the former acting Secretary of Defence, in advisory roles. The strategic approach of bringing in prominent figures aims to strengthen the company’s collaborations with the Pentagon.
The company has been designing various drone models, including those capable of executing strike missions. Francescon noted that while Dzyne's drones are capable of surveillance and reconnaissance, there are also developments in one-way drones that can be deployed for offensive operations, similar to those used in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, he clarified that Dzyne does not currently build armed drones on-site in Irvine.
Dzyne operates a 125,000 square foot manufacturing facility in Irvine, which has already grown to employ over 150 staff. As demand increases and military requirements evolve, there are plans for further expansion. Francescon remarked on the rapid growth of the facility and the commitment to meeting anticipated military needs. He also expressed enthusiasm for enhancing the influence of Southern California firms in Washington.
The key rationale for utilising drones, according to Francescon, lies in their operational capacity in scenarios where manned aircraft, such as the F-35 fighter jet, may be limited or too risky. He characterised drones as "attritable," meaning that while they may carry lower individual costs, their loss during missions does not incur the same repercussions as losing a manned fighter aircraft, wherein the safety of personnel is at stake. The evolving landscape of drone technology positions Dzyne Technologies as a significant player in the defence sector, aligning with the anticipated shift toward automation and unmanned systems in military operations.
Source: Noah Wire Services