XTEND secures U.S. patent for autonomous navigation technology

XTEND Reality Inc., a developer of software and AI-powered robots designed for hazardous environments, has secured a U.S. patent for technology enabling drones to navigate autonomously toward mission objectives. U.S. Patent No. 12,222,735, along with corresponding protection in Israel, covers a system that allows uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) to continuously steer toward an operator-designated destination regardless of environmental conditions. The invention adapts navigation while maintaining progress toward goals, reducing operator workload and supporting reliable mission execution in complex settings.

CEO Statement

“Autonomy is not simply about moving a robot from Point A to Point B. It is about translating human intent into reliable mission execution, even in unfamiliar, dynamic environments,” said Aviv Shapira, co-founder and CEO of XTEND. “This patent aims to protect technology that enables operators to focus on the mission while autonomous systems manage the complexity of navigation.” He added that the patent strengthens XTEND’s competitive position as autonomous operations expand in defense, security, and public safety, reinforcing the XTEND Operating System (XOS) as the software foundation for next-generation autonomous robotics.

XOS Platform

The proprietary XOS provides edge-level autonomy and operates across defense, law enforcement, and private security missions through a platform of robots, drones, and robotic subsystems. XTEND noted its open architecture facilitates scalability with partners and third-party applications. Founded in 2018, the company has deployed over 10,000 systems in more than 30 countries, validated in five combat zones. Based in Tampa, Florida, XTEND delivers NDAA-compliant solutions via global XFAB manufacturing facilities in the U.S., U.K., Singapore, Israel, and Latvia.

Expanding Operational Reach

As autonomous systems become more central to defense, public safety, and critical infrastructure missions, operators often face environments that cannot be fully mapped or predicted. XTEND’s patented technology enables robotic systems to navigate evolving terrain, structures, obstacles, and conditions while staying focused on designated objectives, improving efficiency and mission continuity. The company said the patent complements its broader autonomy architecture, allowing a single operator to supervise air, ground, and maritime systems with meaningful human oversight.

Last week, XTEND also qualified for the Gauntlet II phase of the U.S. Department of War’s $1 billion Drone Dominance Program, which will test autonomous one-way attack systems in August at Fort Carson, Colorado. Additionally, XTEND obtained over $12 million in cumulative defense orders, including $3 million in follow-on orders across two autonomous system programs.

Merger Update

In February, XTEND agreed to an all-stock merger with JFB Construction Holdings, a real estate development and construction company operating in 36 U.S. states. Existing XTEND shareholders will own about 70% of the combined company, while JFB shareholders will hold about 30% on a fully diluted basis. Strategic investments from Eric Trump, Unusual Machines, American Ventures, Protego Ventures, and Aliya Capital support the deal. JFB expects to complete the transaction midyear, pending regulatory approval, with the combined company—XTEND AI Robotics—trading on Nasdaq under the ticker “XTND.” The merger aims to accelerate autonomous system deployment, expand U.S.-based manufacturing, and establish a publicly traded defense robotics company serving the U.S., NATO allies, and partner nations, led by Aviv Shapira.

The source for this article is https://www.therobotreport.com/xtend-secures-u-s-patent-autonomous-navigation-technology/.