FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | September 26, 2025 – Carnegie, PA
15-month project emphasizes innovative rapid prototyping and boosts Pennsylvania’s defense technology economy
VISIMO Secures $3M U.S. Army Contract for AI-Powered Reconnaissance Drones
CARNEGIE, PA. – VISIMO, a Carnegie-based small business specializing in artificial intelligence and rapid prototyping, has been awarded a $3 million, 15-month prototype contract from the U.S. Army Artificial Intelligence Integration Center (AI2C). Executed via the Department of Defense’s Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace, this contract will fund the design and delivery of advanced Medium-Range Reconnaissance (MRR) drones featuring cutting-edge AI technology and additive manufacturing capabilities. This project builds upon VISIMO’s established reputation and recent “Awardable” designation on the DoD Tradewinds Marketplace.
AI-Driven Innovation in Medium-Range Reconnaissance (MRR) Drones
VISIMO’s innovative drone solution combines AI-driven automation with open architecture and near Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) capability. This approach enables rapid remanufacturing near frontline positions, significantly enhancing operational flexibility. The attritable drones provide persistent aerial surveillance and automated battle damage assessment, delivering real-time intelligence while protecting higher-value military assets and personnel. VISIMO has a strong history in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), notably demonstrated through its recent partnership with NASA to advance autonomous drone navigation.
“We’re honored to partner with the U.S. Army on this pivotal project,” said James Julius, Founder and CEO of VISIMO. “This initiative reflects VISIMO’s dedication to defense innovation and highlights southwestern Pennsylvania’s role as a national leader in emerging defense technologies.”
VISIMO’s drones will incorporate NDAA-compliant hardware and open-source software, ensuring robust security and supply-chain integrity. With modular design for interchangeable payloads, including electro-optical/infrared sensors and precision-effects modules, the drone system is engineered for versatile operational scenarios.
Supporting Defense Technology and Pennsylvania’s Economy
“Western Pennsylvania is at the forefront of cutting-edge AI technology that powers businesses and protects our country. It’s great to see the federal government stepping up and investing in our workers and companies right here at home. Every dollar we bring back to the Commonwealth means better-paying jobs, stronger communities, and real wins for Pennsylvania,” said Senator John Fetterman.
The Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace streamlines the procurement of advanced technologies, fostering collaboration between the Department of Defense and innovative small businesses such as VISIMO, accelerating adoption of mission-critical AI solutions.
For more details on VISIMO’s ongoing projects and defense innovation capabilities, visit the VISIMO newsroom.
About VISIMO
VISIMO, founded in 2015, specializes in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and rapid prototyping solutions serving federal agencies and commercial customers. Committed to advancing national security and supporting regional economic development, VISIMO continuously delivers cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance operational effectiveness and informed decision-making. Learn more at VISIMO.ai.
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Government Disclaimer:
Effort sponsored by the U.S. Government under the Project Agreement. The U.S. Government is authorized to reproduce and distribute reprints for governmental purposes notwithstanding any copyright notation thereon. The views and conclusions contained herein are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as necessarily representing the official policies or endorsements, either expressed or implied, of the U.S. Government.
Tradewinds: The Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace is the premier offering of Tradewinds, the Department of Defense’s (DoD’s) suite of tools and services designed to accelerate the procurement and adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML),data, and analytics capabilities.
