US-based Ondas Holdings has announced a strategic investment in Norway’s Rift Dynamics and, through American Robotics’ exclusive US distribution, has positioned the Wåsp as a low-cost, expendable loitering strike and ISR platform within Ondas’ layered defense portfolio, which also includes the Airobotics Optimus and Iron Drone Raider. Both companies confirmed that American Robotics has placed an initial order for 500 Wåsp systems and is actively competing for U.S. Department of Defense contracts, with first deliveries expected in October.

Rift describes the Wåsp FP as a hybrid between an armed FPV drone and an advanced AI-powered surveillance system, designed for affordability, autonomy, and rapid deployment. Built in Norway, the platform emphasizes modular payloads and adaptive software, enabling ISR and loitering operations even in contested or challenging environments.

Specifications and Performance:
– Speed: 150 km/h (≈93 mph), offering FPV-like agility suitable for strike or high-speed ISR missions.
– Payload: 1.5 kg (≈3.3 lbs), allowing flexible mission kits within a small UAV weight class.
– Communications: IP-based radio with optional 4G/5G or fiber links; optional GNSS control for enhanced navigation flexibility.

The Wåsp is a multi-role, combat-ready platform supporting advanced autonomy, including AI vision and potential swarm capabilities. Rift and Ondas confirmed that the system has been tested by the Norwegian Army to meet NATO interoperability, EASA C2/Class 1A, and Military Open 1A standards, making it suitable for European procurement programs and allied integration.

Rift also stated that it has established NDAA-compliant European supply chains and contract manufacturing networks, capable of producing over 20,000 units per month across three international factories within six months of an order. The focus on European procurement and rapid scalability underscores the demand for expendable systems that avoid Chinese components.