IAI and SIG SAUER Complete FIRE STORM 250 Armed Drone Firing Test
IAI and SIG SAUER have completed a firing test of the FIRE STORM 250 armed VTOL drone, demonstrating airborne target identification and machine-gun engagement.
WASHINGTON, D.C., October 13, 2026 — Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and SIG SAUER have completed a firing test of the FIRE STORM 250 tactical unmanned aerial system, equipped with SIG SAUER’s MICROLIGHT Remote Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS) and M250 machine gun.
According to a joint press release issued during AUSA 2026, the test involved the drone identifying targets through its onboard camera and engaging them using single-shot and semi-automatic firing modes. The companies reported that firing was conducted from different distances and altitudes.
The FIRE STORM 250 is a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) platform designed for surveillance and armed support missions. IAI states that the system has an endurance of up to three hours while carrying 200 rounds of ammunition. It uses a multi-fuel internal-combustion engine and can be refueled in the field.
The weapon system operates with a human-in-the-loop fire-control architecture, meaning an operator retains responsibility for authorizing weapons engagement. The companies identify close air support, border security, force protection and surveillance among its intended applications.
The companies did not disclose the test location, date or whether the system has secured any military orders.
FIRE STORM 250 is on display at AUSA 2026 in Washington, D.C., at the IAI booth in Hall C (3525) and the SIG SAUER booth in Hall E (8015).
Source: IAI and SIG SAUER joint press release, October 13, 2026.
