US Army demonstrates a compact spy drone in operation

The 1st Infantry Division of the U.S. Army has introduced a new tool to its arsenal—the Black Hornet 3, a nano-drone system from Teledyne FLIR that has proven its effectiveness in combat by providing real-time surveillance while remaining nearly invisible.

“Drones represent the cutting edge of advanced weaponry. By incorporating this vital new resource into training for Big Red One Soldiers, the 1st Infantry Division is ensuring they are prepared for any situation,” the division stated in a release accompanied by fresh images of the drone in action.

Drones are the new frontier of advanced weapons technology. By utilizing this important new asset in training opportunities for #BigRedOne Soldiers, the 1st Infantry Division is staying prepped and ready for anything. #DutyFirst #yotw

U.S. Army photos by Quinn O’Hara pic.twitter.com/qVG8xnoWnx

— 1st Infantry Division (@FightingFirst) May 14, 2025

Weighing only 33 grams, the Black Hornet 3 equips dismounted soldiers with instant situational awareness—day or night, even in difficult terrains and adverse weather. Its minimal noise output and compact form allow it to conduct covert reconnaissance, delivering a significant edge in close-quarters or urban combat scenarios.

As stated by Teledyne FLIR, the manufacturer of the system, “Black Hornet 3 was spotted with the BIG RED ONE!” The company further noted, “The Black Hornet 3 provides soldiers with immediate covert situational awareness, regardless of the time of day or weather conditions.”

This nano-drone system, capable of transmitting real-time video, boasts a flight duration of up to 25 minutes and is designed for highly portable operations. Currently utilized by Ukrainian forces—thanks to donations from the governments of the United Kingdom and Norway—the system has demonstrated its effectiveness in high-threat environments.

The U.S. Army is actively increasing its procurement of these ultra-light reconnaissance tools as part of a larger transition towards distributed sensing and tactical agility on the contemporary battlefield. Teledyne FLIR reports that it has supplied over 20,000 Black Hornet systems to military and security forces across more than 40 countries, including several NATO allies.