American company Cummings Aerospace has successfully conducted the first flight tests of the Hellhound S3 kamikaze drone, created using 3D printing technology. This was reported on March 31, 2025, by the PR Newswire agency, specifying that the tests were conducted at the US Army proving ground as part of the Expeditionary Warrior Experiment (AEWE) 2025 experimental program. The new drone with a jet engine was developed for the LASSO (Low Altitude Stalking and Strike Ordnance) program, aimed at equipping infantry brigades with portable means of destroying armored vehicles at long distances, including loitering munitions.

The Hellhound S3 weighs 11,4 kilograms and can accelerate to 604 kilometers per hour, making it one of the fastest kamikaze drones in its class. The company did not disclose exact data on the flight range, but emphasized the modular design of the device. Thanks to this feature, the drone can carry both a warhead for destroying targets, and reconnaissance equipment or electronic warfare systems, which expands its use on the battlefield. Tests confirmed the operability of 3D printing technology, which allows for faster production and lower costs, while maintaining high assembly accuracy.

The LASSO project, of which the Hellhound S3 is a part, is designed to enhance the combat capabilities of American infantry in modern conflicts. The program is focused on fighting enemy armor at low altitudes, where traditional air defenses are less effective. Cummings Aerospace plans to integrate the drone into the arsenal of infantry brigades, providing soldiers with a compact and powerful weapon to quickly respond to threats. The success of the tests, according to company representatives, opens the way for serial production, planned for 2026.

Today, the development of kamikaze drones remains a priority for the US military. In March 2025, the Pentagon allocated an additional $200 million for autonomous systems programs, including LASSO, due to the growing threats from Russia and China. Earlier this month, the US Air Force tested a large surface drone LUSV capable of carrying missiles, and now the success of the Hellhound S3 strengthens the US position in the race for innovative weapons. Experts note that the use of 3D printing could be a game changer, allowing drones to be quickly adapted to specific tasks.

Competition in this area is growing. In March 2025, China presented its FH-901 loitering munition with a range of 15 kilometers, and Russia is increasing production of Lancets, which are actively used in the Belgorod region. The United States, in turn, is betting on speed and modularity, which gives the Hellhound S3 an advantage in maneuverability. Against this background, Congress is discussing increasing the budget for such projects to $ 1,5 billion in 2026 in order to maintain a technological lead. While the LASSO program is gaining momentum, the Hellhound S3 tests confirm Washington's course to rearm the infantry with high-tech close combat weapons.