Israeli Drone Innovator XTEND Launches U.S. HQ in Tampa: Impact on Drones and Defense
The global drone industry has experienced a pivotal development in Tampa, Florida, with the unveiling of Israeli drone company XTEND’s U.S. headquarters and manufacturing facility. Recognized for advancing human-guided robotics and defense technologies, XTEND’s expansion poses significant implications for the drone sector, U.S. defense, and enthusiasts. Here’s a closer look at XTEND’s growth and American-made drones.
Why XTEND Selected Tampa: Strategic Factors Beyond Weather
Founded in 2018 by brothers Aviv and Matteo Shapira with drone racing innovator Rubi Liani, XTEND is a leading figure in unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The company’s new 8,000-square-meter facility is strategically located near MacDill Air Force Base, home to U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM)—a longstanding XTEND client. This move not only brings jobs to Florida but also enhances advanced engineering, rapid prototyping, and delivery to key U.S. military partners. The plant is capable of producing thousands of drones yearly, with potential expansion, already fulfilling a Department of Defense order from 2023.
Battle-Tested Technology with Real-World Application
XTEND’s drones, proven in five active conflict zones including Ukraine and Israel, carry significant appeal amid the U.S. government’s effort to minimize foreign reliance for crucial defense technology.
Key XTEND Systems:
- Wolverine Tactical Drone: Operational with U.S. forces since 2022, noted for its rugged performance.
- Griffon Drone Interceptor: Handheld device designed to neutralize enemy drones traveling at 80 mph.
- XTENDER Indoor Microdrone: Tailored for indoor tactics and urban warfare.
- Sparrowhawk Counter-UAS System: Deployed by U.S. special forces to combat drone threats.
All systems meet National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) standards, eliminating concerns about supply chain and foreign ownership issues.
From Racing to Defense: XTEND’s Deep Roots
XTEND’s foundation lies in both startup ambition and pop culture. Initially engaged with drone racing, Aviv Shapira and Rubi Liani shifted focus during 2019 tensions at the Israel-Gaza border, combating low-tech threats like booby-trapped kites. This adaptation led to their initial defense contracts and a pivotal turning point for XTEND.
“You have your gaming business, and suddenly you become a defense company,” Aviv Shapira reflects, recognizing the shift as a crucial moment.
Innovative Operations as Simple as Gaming
XTEND distinguishes itself with a user-friendly operation akin to video gaming. Most military drones require extensive pilot training; XTEND’s XOS operating system enables even newcomers to conduct complex missions in five minutes, drastically cutting training time.
This “human-machine teaming” concept is gaining traction with military planners, police departments, disaster response agencies, and industrial organizations.
Empowering Rather Than Replacing: XTEND’s Design Philosophy
For XTEND, drones and robots are meant to empower humans, not replace them. As CTO Rubi Liani states:
“When it’s another brain to think alongside with a human, this is AI. This is what we are doing with drones—empowering humans.”
Human-guided autonomy improves safety, precision, and mission efficiency, whether neutralizing threats or conducting search and rescue.
Exploring Technical Specs: What’s Under the Hood?
- Category: Group 1 UAS (up to 20 pounds/9 kg)
- Max Speed: 100 knots (115 mph / 185 km/h)
- Ceiling: 1,200 feet (366 meters)
- Production Volume: Up to 3,000 drones monthly, catering to global markets.
XTEND systems allow swift customization for missions ranging from counter-drone defense to industrial inspections.
Bolstering America’s Drone Industry
XTEND’s Tampa facility aligns with U.S. defense policy, enhancing military readiness, creating American jobs, and reducing foreign supplier reliance. Tampa leaders welcome XTEND’s local investment:
- Tampa Mayor Jane Castor: “Israeli businesses have been expanding in the Tampa region, fostering a wonderful relationship.”
- XTEND CEO Aviv Shapira: “We are building capabilities, resilience, and trust. Establishing our U.S. hub in Tampa has strong support from various partners.”
XTEND anticipates employing numerous professionals as production scales up.
Changing the Drone Landscape
For the U.S. Military: Timely drone deployment and upgrades near a major special operations center ensure faster mission responses.
First Responders & Law Enforcement: XTEND’s adaptable drones can serve firefighting, surveillance, and tactical operations quickly.
Drone Industry Impact: XTEND leads innovations in AI control and “human-machine collaboration,” lowering entry barriers to drone technology.
Tampa and U.S. Tech Scene: As a hub for next-gen robotics and defense, the Tampa site draws high-tech talent.
People Behind XTEND: Innovators and Achievers
Beyond advanced hardware, XTEND shines through its team. Aviv and Matteo Shapira bring Silicon Valley and media experience, while Rubi Liani, champion drone racer, instills performance-driven design. Veteran unit members, computer vision experts, and creative minds collaborate in a culture embracing effective, user-friendly systems.
Success Stories and Life-Saving Missions
From countering Hamas threats in Israel to deployments in Ukraine and with U.S. special forces, XTEND’s adaptable technology continues to prove its worth in critical defense scenarios.
What’s on the Horizon? Expansion and Innovation
XTEND plans for growth, potential civilian application, and ongoing U.S. and NATO partnerships. Flight schools already operate in Israel, Singapore, and the U.S., fostering the next generation of skilled pilots.
Cultural Highlights
- Pop Culture Roots: XTEND’s journey parallels “Ready Player One,” from racing to defense realities.
- Debates on Robotics: With drones as frontline tools, ethical considerations in warfare and robotics persist.
- Passionate Founders: Blending tech with Israeli creativity and boldness, XTEND evokes “Iron Man meets Start-Up Nation.”
Conclusion
XTEND’s presence in Tampa marks a shift in robotics, defense, and drone technology. With intuitive controls, robust reliability, and American manufacturing capabilities, XTEND sets a benchmark for future operations. As drones turn indispensable, XTEND’s innovative approach ensures rapid, confident responses to evolving challenges.
For inquiries or to witness drone demonstrations, XTEND Tampa is open to pilots, partners, and technology enthusiasts, ushering a future that’s airborne.
