Skydio is giving defense agencies something they’ve always wanted—control over their own tech. With the release of its Interface Control Document (ICD) on March 4, 2025, the U.S. drone manufacturer is letting 3rd-party developers build custom payloads for the Skydio X10D.

Until now, military users had to rely on a fixed set of attachments. That’s changing. The new system turns the X10D into a fully adaptable machine, tailored for mission-specific needs.

Why does this matter? Because battlefield conditions are unpredictable. A drone that can switch roles in seconds is a serious advantage. Whether it’s carrying a signal relay device or a chemical detector, the X10D is now a tool that military operators can customize as needed.

This move isn’t just about adding new gadgets. It’s about giving defense agencies the flexibility they need to stay ahead in high-risk environments. The X10D is no longer just a drone—it’s a platform for military innovation.

What Makes Skydio X10D Stand Out?

The Skydio X10D was built for ISR operations (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance). But it’s never been a one-trick pony. With AI-powered navigation, obstacle detection, and a modular frame, it’s already one of the most advanced drones in its class.

The numbers tell the story. Skydio has shipped over 45,000 drones. Every branch of the U.S. military and 25 allied nations use them. That kind of adoption doesn’t happen by accident.

Before this upgrade, users had access to four official payloads designed for specialized tasks: the Spotlight provided bright illumination for dark areas during nighttime operations; Speaker for the drone to broadcast messages mid-flight; Parachute served as a safety mechanism for controlled emergency landings; and the NightSense attachment made autonomous flight possible even in zero-light conditions, expanding the drone’s operational range in challenging environments.

Now, with third-party integrations, the possibilities are nearly endless. Defense agencies can fit the X10D with tools for electronic warfare, signal relay, chemical detection, and more. The open architecture means the drone can evolve as mission needs change.

This isn’t about making minor tweaks. This is about turning a drone into a multi-role asset that can support complex military operations with real-time adaptability.

Power Of Skydio X10DCustom Attachments 

Expanding Military Capabilities 

Battlefields don’t wait for new technology. Soldiers need adaptable tools that work in unpredictable conditions. The X10D’s new payload system allows military operators to tailor their drones for different scenarios without waiting for Skydio to release new attachments.

This upgrade means defense teams can develop, test, and deploy specialized attachments based on immediate mission demands. A drone that was monitoring a conflict zone in the morning could be delivering supplies by the afternoon. That’s the kind of flexibility military users have been waiting for.

Examples of Custom Payloads 

With four attachment bays, each capable of delivering 50 watts of power, the X10D is built to carry serious hardware. Third-party developers can now create:

  • Payload Dropper: Delivers medical supplies or tactical gear in combat zones.
  • Electronic Warfare Sensors: Detects GPS jamming and radio interference.
  • Signal Relay Devices: Extends connectivity in isolated and communication-challenged locations.
  • Chemical Detectors: Identifies hazardous substances in the field.
  • Diversionary Devices: Creates distractions to support special operations.

These aren’t just theoretical ideas. Companies are already testing new payloads for the X10D, proving that the platform is ready for real-world applications. The ability to swap attachments mid-mission means one drone can handle multiple tasks, reducing the need for separate devices and simplifying logistics.

Related Reading: Drones Over US And Challenges To Privacy And Homeland Security

Successful Integration with Industry Leaders

L3Harris RF-9820S-ER Radio 

Communication failures can turn an operation into a disaster. That’s why L3Harris tested its RF-9820S-ER software-defined radio (SDR) with the X10D.

This isn’t just any radio. It runs Wraith™, a waveform designed to resist jamming and work in GPS-denied environments. During a two-day test, the X10D successfully transmitted command and video signals using the L3Harris RF-9820S-ER. The result? Reliable connectivity even in the toughest conditions.

With this radio, the X10D can keep flying even when adversaries try to disrupt its signals. That’s a serious advantage in modern warfare, where electronic interference is a constant threat.

Elsight Halo Connectivity

BVLOS (Beyond Visual Line of Sight) control is an asset for military drones. Elsight’s Halo system gives the X10D uninterrupted connectivity using radio, cellular and satellite networks.

Defense teams can now operate drones remotely, even in regions with little to no infrastructure. The Halo system automatically switches between different signal sources to prevent communication loss.

This means operators don’t have to worry about sudden blackouts or weak signals. The X10D stays connected, no matter where it’s deployed.

For missions in hostile territory, reliable communication is non-negotiable. Elsight’s technology makes sure the X10D stays in the fight when other drones might lose their connection.

The Bigger Picture – Skydio’s Military Impact

Skydio isn’t new to defense work. All U.S. military branches, as well as 25 allied nations, use its drones. The reason? Reliability and adaptability.

The X10D’s open-platform design makes it an asset that evolves with changing threats. Defense agencies aren’t stuck waiting for Skydio to develop new features. They can create their own solutions in real-time.

That flexibility matters. Electronic warfare is becoming more sophisticated. Communications networks are under constant attack. A drone that can adapt and keep flying is invaluable.

The modular approach also means fewer drones are needed for multiple roles. Instead of deploying different models for different tasks, agencies can adjust the X10D as needed. That saves time, money, and resources.

Skydio isn’t just selling drones. It’s giving military teams the ability to shape their own drone programs based on real-world challenges.

A New Standard for Defense Technology

The X10D is making waves as a platform that adapts to military needs.

With the release of the Attachment ICD, Skydio has handed control to defense agencies. Now, they can develop their own mission-specific payloads, keeping their drone technology ahead of evolving threats.

You can get it here: skydio.com/developer-tools.

Partnerships with companies like L3Harris and Elsight prove that this isn’t just talk. The X10D is already running with industry-leading tech, giving defense teams better communication, stronger resilience, and more flexibility in the field.

Military operators now have a drone they can configure on the fly. That means faster deployments, smarter missions, and better security in unpredictable environments.

Also Read: How the DoD is Fighting Threats From Enemy Drones