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Autonomous Drones Compete in Michigan’s Uncrewed Triple Challenge

Inaugural event demonstrates autonomous package delivery across sea, air, and land.

Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at 02:11 PM ET

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An autonomous drone lifts off with a package to begin the aerial portion of the three-leg Uncrewed Triple Challenge. [Courtesy: Michigan National Guard livestream]

Key Takeaways:

Michigan has launched the "Uncrewed Triple Challenge," a first-of-its-kind state-sponsored competition where autonomous drones deliver 10-pound packages across sea, land, and air without human intervention.
The challenge involves diverse teams and partners, including state agencies, the military, FAA, and DOD, to showcase the dual-use (military and civilian) applications of uncrewed technologies for critical deliveries.
This initiative underscores Michigan's strategic commitment to establishing itself as a leader in drone and Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) technologies.
The state has demonstrated this commitment through significant investments in AAM infrastructure, such as the Advanced Aerial Innovation Region, a planned drone park, and funding for various related projects and research.

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Michigan on Tuesday kicked off what stakeholders bill as a first-of-its-kind, state-sponsored competition where participants use autonomous drones to deliver 10-pound packages.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Department of Transportation (MDOT), Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, and National Guard are partnering to host the Uncrewed Triple Challenge, which pits teams from seven states and three countries against one another to deliver across sea, land, and air—all with humans out of the loop. The inaugural event began Tuesday morning, and the overall winner will be revealed by the end of the day.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.