Seoul, South Korea — April 3, 2026 : South Korean technology firm DAON I&C has formally entered the defense sector with the unveiling of its SWARM-X series of military-grade unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), expanding beyond its established role in civilian drone swarm light show operations. The company’s new platforms are designed for high-speed, swarm-enabled combat and reconnaissance missions, incorporating artificial intelligence and domestically developed systems.
The announcement follows recent demonstrations conducted by Defense Advancement, during which DAON’s UAVs successfully executed payload delivery operations, including the release of mines and grenades. These trials highlighted the company’s transition toward deployable military applications and validated its strike drone capabilities under controlled conditions.
SWARM-X Platform Overview
The SWARM-X brand represents DAON’s next-generation swarm drone portfolio, centered on two primary systems: the XV600 and XV1200. Both platforms employ quad tailsitter vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) configurations, allowing them to operate without conventional runway infrastructure while transitioning to fixed-wing flight for extended range and speed.
The XV600 is a 600-class UAV designed for deployment at the squad or platoon level. It is engineered for high-speed operations and precision strike missions, carrying combat payloads for targeted engagements. The platform also supports day-and-night reconnaissance through electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) sensors and is capable of conducting deception missions by altering visual signatures such as color and operational patterns.
The larger XV1200 is a 1200-class VTOL fixed-wing UAV built for heavier payload operations and longer-range missions. It is specifically configured to deploy munitions equivalent to 60 mm mortar rounds. The system integrates onboard artificial intelligence for target recognition and supports direct collision or terminal dive strike profiles, enabling both operational and training applications.
In addition to strike roles, both UAVs have demonstrated the ability to operate in coordinated autonomous formations, conducting real-time multi-mapping and surveying missions.
Integration of Edge AI and Autonomous Targeting
DAON I&C is developing a networked combat mission system that integrates reconnaissance drones with loitering munition platforms using Edge Artificial Intelligence. The system is designed to enable autonomous collaboration between multiple UAVs during combat operations.
In this architecture, reconnaissance swarm drones independently identify and track targets such as enemy personnel, tanks, and armored vehicles. The collected data is processed onboard using AI-enabled image recognition and then transmitted to strike drones, which execute attacks based on the provided coordinates.
According to CEO Yang Chang-yol, the company is working toward a unified AI-driven framework that combines image processing, flight control, mission execution, and communication. This system will incorporate neural processor-based Edge AI semiconductors to support onboard decision-making and reduce reliance on external control.
Traffic Management and Cybersecurity Architecture
To support large-scale swarm deployments, DAON is also developing the DAON Traffic Management System (D-TMS), an autonomous air traffic control framework tailored for unmanned swarm operations. The system integrates blockchain technology with AI-based flight control to manage communication between drones and ensure safe operation in dense environments.
The D-TMS enables real-time coordination between UAVs to prevent mid-air collisions through autonomous communication protocols. The use of blockchain technology is intended to enhance cybersecurity, protecting against electronic warfare threats, unauthorized access, and data manipulation.
Localization of Core Technologies
A key aspect of DAON’s strategy is the full localization of critical drone components to mitigate supply chain risks and improve system security. The SWARM-X platforms incorporate the company’s proprietary D-FC (Flight Controller) v2.0, which operates on dedicated firmware and communication protocols to enhance flight stability and resilience.
The company has also developed indigenous ground control station software (DGCS), along with localized EO/IR cameras, video transmission systems, and cryptographic modules. These components are integrated into what DAON describes as its “SWARM AI” full-stack system, consolidating over a decade of experience in swarm flight control technologies.
Background and Industrial Collaboration
DAON I&C has accumulated technical expertise in swarm drone operations since launching South Korea’s first drone light show platform in 2015. The company has conducted large-scale civilian projects, including Hyundai Motor Group’s “Sing Your Wish” drone show and permanent drone display installations at Nokdong Port in Goheung and Lake Sapkyo in Dangjin.
In support of its defense expansion, DAON was selected for the 2025 AI Semiconductor Application Demonstration Support Project by the Ministry of Science and ICT and the National IT Industry Promotion Agency. The company is also collaborating with the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute on multi-drone autonomous flight systems for search-and-rescue missions.
Additionally, DAON has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Indonesian UAV manufacturer BETA-UAS to develop swarm VTOL solutions for international markets.
Product Portfolio and Future Plans
Alongside the XV600 and XV1200, DAON’s broader UAV portfolio includes platforms such as the X450 training drone, the X850N reconnaissance drone with onboard AI capabilities, and the X500E designed for public safety applications. The company has also showcased supporting technologies, including the DCam Onix FPV camera and DGCS swarm control software, at industry exhibitions such as Drone Show Korea (DSK).
Headquartered in Gwangmyeong-si, Gyeonggi-do, DAON I&C plans to establish manufacturing infrastructure and expand into defense, military, and educational technology markets by 2027. The company aims to provide integrated solutions for long-range surveillance, reconnaissance, detection, and autonomous strike missions to both domestic and international clients.
While the operational roles and system architecture of the XV600 and XV1200 have been disclosed, the company has not released detailed technical specifications such as dimensions, weight, propulsion systems, or maximum speed.
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