Leonardo DRS Unveils SAGEcore™: Ruggedized AI Software Platform for Tactical Edge Threat Detection and Decision Support

10/12/2025 – 10:40 AM

Software platform uses AI and machine learning for rapid fusing of complex data into shared, real-time view of battlespace for faster, smarter and safer action under fire

ARLINGTON, Va. – Leonardo DRS, Inc. (NASDAQ: DRS), a key player in defense technology, has unveiled SAGEcore™, a new integrated software platform designed to fuse artificial intelligence (AI), advanced sensor technology, and edge computing. The aim: to create a single, rapidly deployable solution for tactical platforms operating across diverse, multi-domain environments. This announcement signals a strategic push by Leonardo DRS to capture a greater share of the rapidly expanding market for AI-powered defense solutions.

SAGEcore is explicitly engineered for the fast-paced realities of battlefield operations. Optimized to execute AI algorithms on ruggedized edge computers, the platform promises to process vast quantities of complex data directly on the platform. This design is crucial for maintaining high reliability, minimizing latency, and ensuring continuous operation in challenging conditions. The on-platform processing capability seeks to deliver warfighters with immediate situational awareness and accelerate their decision-making processes – a critical factor in modern combat scenarios.

“The innovation isn’t solely about incorporating AI; it’s about seamlessly integrating it to function effectively at the tactical edge,” stated John Baylouny, Chief Operating Officer at Leonardo DRS. “SAGEcore is designed to integrate AI, advanced sensor integration, and ruggedized computing to interpret the complexities of an ever-evolving battlespace. This launch strengthens our commitment to providing warfighters with real-time decision-making tools, while simultaneously delivering sustainable value to our partners and stakeholders.”

SAGEcore: A Versatile Platform for Tactical Advantage

The SAGEcore platform has been specifically tailored for compute environments found across a range of tactical vehicles, airborne platforms, maritime systems, and even space vehicles. It is designed to process multiple sensor feeds in parallel – including data from radar, infrared, and various intelligence broadcasts – delivering AI-driven insights directly to the point of need. This capability addresses a growing demand for real-time intelligence analysis directly on the battlefield, minimizing reliance on vulnerable and potentially slow external networks.

Key capabilities include:

• Seamless integration of AI and machine learning algorithms developed by trusted partners

• Real-time AI/ML algorithm execution using ruggedized GPUs to meet critical mission objectives, such as threat detection, target tracking, and command-and-control (C2) functions

• Multi-sensor data fusion using open standards like sensor open systems architecture (SOSA)

• High Assurance Encryption and Cross Domain capability built-in

• Incorporates PACE (Primary, Alternate, Contingency, Emergency) communications for mission-critical reliability

• Interoperability with external battlefield management and C2 systems

Complementing SAGEcore is Leonardo DRS’s AI Processor, working in tandem to reduce latency for critical, high-bandwidth data streams. The combined system increases the ability to simultaneously manage multiple targets and accelerate decision-making cycles, this is especially important when disconnected from external networks. This integration highlights the company’s focus on establishing a complete, highly efficient ecosystem for AI-powered tactical operations.

Targeting Key Mission Areas: Counter-UAS, Electronic Warfare, and Autonomy

SAGEcore’s scalability positions it as a pivotal technology for a broad range of tactical applications, ranging from Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) and electronic warfare (EW) to fully autonomous systems. By forging strategic partnerships with both defense agencies and industry innovators, Leonardo DRS intends to ensure the smooth integration of advanced sensing, machine learning, and edge computing into a cohesive stack. This collaborative approach allows for continuous upgrades and adaptations to address emerging threats and operational requirements.

Strategic Implications for Leonardo DRS

The launch of SAGEcore represents a significant strategic move for Leonardo DRS. As defense budgets increasingly prioritize AI and autonomous systems, the company is positioning itself to capitalize on this trend. However, competition in the defense technology sector is fierce. The company will need to demonstrate the platform’s real-world effectiveness and reliability in order to gain a competitive edge. SAGEcore’s success will depend on the company’s ability to navigate the complexities of defense procurement, cultivate strong partnerships, and maintain a steady pace of innovation.

About Leonardo DRS

Leonardo DRS, Inc. (Nasdaq: DRS) is at the forefront of developing transformative defense technologies using its proven agility and delivering innovative solutions for U.S. national security customers and allies worldwide. We specialize in rapidly providing high-performance, multi-domain capabilities across next-generation advanced sensing, network computing, force protection and electric power and propulsion. Our reputation as a trusted provider is built on a continuous focus on practical innovation, delivering quality and meeting our customers’ most demanding mission requirements. For further information on our complete range of capabilities, visit www.LeonardoDRS.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements reflect current expectations, assumptions and estimates of future performance and economic conditions. The company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements which include contract values, contract performance and our development and production of products are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results and future trends to differ materially from those matters expressed in or implied by such forward-looking statements.