Israel-based XTEND Reality Inc. has officially opened a new headquarters and manufacturing facility in Tampa, Florida, aiming to expand its operations in the United States. The company, headquartered in Tel Aviv, specializes in unmanned aerial systems (UAS) that support the Israel Defense Forces, the American military, and various commercial clients.
The establishment of the Tampa office is seen as a strategic move to enhance XTEND’s support for U.S. defense missions, aligning with the objectives of U.S. leaders to promote and utilize domestically produced autonomous technologies. This expansion caters to the growing need for advanced aerial systems as part of national defense initiatives.
Among XTEND’s ongoing projects for the U.S. Department of Defense is the production of Group 1 drones, which are designed to weigh up to 20 pounds (9 kilograms) and operate at altitudes of up to 1,200 feet (366 meters). These drones can reach speeds of up to 100 knots (115 miles/185 kilometers per hour), showcasing their robust capabilities.
In 2023, XTEND’s various UAS models, such as the Wolverine small rugged system, the Griffon drone interceptor, and the XTENDER tactical indoor microdrone, successfully met the full compliance standards set by the National Defense Authorization Act for use by the U.S. military. XTEND has also previously participated in projects aimed at supplying its tactical drones to U.S. forces, including a 2022 initiative involving the Wolverine drone and a 2020 project to provide the Sparrowhawk counter-UAS for American special operations.
Rubi Liani, the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of XTEND, expressed confidence in the company’s mission with the new facility. He emphasized that it would facilitate advanced engineering and innovation tailored specifically for the U.S. market. Liani highlighted the importance of this move in terms of enhancing rapid integration, customization, and deployment of their systems, which are designed to deliver exceptional control, safety, and performance in challenging environments.
As the demand for UAS technology continues to rise, XTEND’s establishment in Tampa marks a significant milestone for the company and a potential boost for the local economy and defense capabilities in the region.
