# L3Harris and US Picket Advance Counter-Drone Systems

L3Harris Technologies' VAMPIRE counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) has achieved procurement demand exceeding **$1 billion**, driven by its demonstrated effectiveness with over 80% kill rate against drone threats in operational use since 2022, notably by Ukrainian forces. Concurrently, US Picket Defense Systems introduced the Inferno RTC, a 54-barrel rotating turret designed to rapidly neutralize kamikaze FPV drone swarms, unveiled at SOF Week 2026. These developments highlight a growing procurement focus on advanced, affordable, and precision counter-drone technologies to address emerging unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) threats.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the significant market demand and operational validation for counter-drone systems, signaling increased budget allocations and acquisition priorities in this domain.
- The introduction of new technologies like US Picket's Inferno RTC indicates evolving requirements for rapid-response, high-capacity C-UAS solutions.
- Contractors and vendors specializing in counter-UAS technologies may find expanding opportunities as military and defense agencies prioritize force protection against drone swarms and kamikaze UAVs.
- Organizations should evaluate integration capabilities and cost-effectiveness of counter-drone systems to align with emerging procurement trends and operational needs.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Emergency Response
**Published:** May 22, 2026

### Vendors
- L3Harris Technologies (prime contractor)
- BAE Systems (subcontractor)
- US Picket Defense Systems (prime contractor)

### Sources
- [Demand Signal For L3Harris’ Vampire Counter-Drone System Exceeds $1 Billion, Executive Says - Defense Daily](https://www.defensedaily.com/demand-signal-for-l3harris-vampire-counter-drone-system-exceeds-1-billion-executive-says/unmanned-systems) - Defense Daily
- [US Picket Defense Systems Unveils Inferno RTC to Counter Kamikaze Drones](https://defcrosnews.com/us-picket-defense-systems-unveils-inferno-rtc-to-counter-kamikaze-drones) - DEFCROS News