# How the Pentagon Is Buying Drone Swarms Like Software

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-defense-tech-podcast-with-fexingo-government-contracting-aerospace-and-military-tech-7871833/how-the-pentagon-is-buying-drone-swarms-like-software-2
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-defense-tech-podcast-with-fexingo-government-contracting-aerospace-and-military-tech-7871833/how-the-pentagon-is-buying-drone-swarms-like-software-2.md
Podcast: [The Defense Tech Podcast with Fexingo: Government Contracting, Aerospace, and Military Tech](https://stenobird.com/podcast/the-defense-tech-podcast-with-fexingo-government-contracting-aerospace-and-military-tech-7871833)
Published: 2026-07-14T20:45:15+00:00
Episode link: https://audio.fexingo.com/business/the-defense-tech-podcast/episode-0111.mp3
Audio file: https://audio.fexingo.com/business/the-defense-tech-podcast/episode-0111.mp3
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Duration seconds: 606

## Resource

In Episode 111, Lucas and Luna explore the Pentagon's latest procurement shift: buying drone swarms as software-defined systems rather than traditional hardware platforms. They break down the new 'attritable' contracting model, where the Pentagon treats swarm drones as disposable assets with continuous software updates, not one-and-done purchases. The conversation ties this to the broader defense tech trend of modular, open-architecture systems and how startups like Anduril and Shield AI are competing with legacy primes for these contracts. Lucas references the recent headlines about U.S. strikes on Iran to illustrate the urgency behind these programs, while Luna notes how Northrop Grumman's and L3Harris's recent stock dips may reflect market skepticism about their ability to adapt. The hosts also discuss the implications for investors and defense contractors, from traditional prime contractors to Silicon Valley newcomers. #Pentagon #DroneSwarms #DefenseTech #Procurement #Anduril #ShieldAI #L3Harris #NorthropGrumman #Attritable #SoftwareDefined #OpenArchitecture #DoD #Innovation #Business #Technology #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #DefenseContracting Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

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