To address the threat of wildlife strikes in aviation, ERDC and USDA are developing and testing an innovative solution called the “robot coyote.” This ground-based drone can patrol airfields to deter wildlife and prevent aircraft collisions. Since May 2025, word of the “robot coyotes” has gone viral, generating more than 500 million views across hundreds of media outlets. Here are a few links about the program and additional information regarding the threat posed to military and civilian aircraft.
Army tests robotic coyotes to defend fighter jets
U.S. Army tests robot coyotes to prevent catastrophic bird strikes
Air Bases Testing Robot Coyotes to Stop Bird Strikes
U.S. Air Force Safety Center: Bird/Wildlife Aircraft Strike Hazard
Federal Aviation Administration: Wildlife Hazard Mitigation
Listen to the audio podcast with Dr. Jake Jung and Dr. Brian Washburn: PowerofERDCPodcast.org/45-robot-coyote.
Watch the video of the interview: PowerofERDCPodcast.org/45-robot-coyote.
For inquiries about ERDC’s robot coyotes, email ERDCinfo@usace.army.mil.
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