In this special edition of the Shephard Defence Podcast, brought to you in partnership with Aeronautics Group, Tony Skinner sits down with Dan Slasky, President and CEO of Aeronautics, to explore how cutting-edge tactical unmanned aerial systems are reshaping today’s battlefields.

From the Orbiter 5 to innovations in loitering munitions and VTOL platforms, the conversation dives into how Aeronautics is building battlefield-ready solutions that are smaller, smarter, and more survivable than ever before. Slasky also discusses how a full-system mindset - integrating UAVs, sensors, communications, and ground control - is helping operators meet complex mission needs with greater speed and precision.

Key Topics:

• Why tactical UAVs are displacing larger, costlier platforms
• How Aeronautics integrates loitering munition capability into ISR platforms
• Innovations in VTOL UAV systems for land and naval use
• How in-house R&D and a full-stack mission approach create better outcomes

Whether you're a defence tech enthusiast or a decision-maker shaping the future battlespace, this episode provides insight on what’s next in tactical unmanned systems.