$Ondas(ONDS.US)The Optimus 1-EX UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) developed by American Robotics, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ondas Holdings (through its Israeli subsidiary Airobotics), was officially added to the U.S. Department of Defense's (DoD) Blue UAS Cleared List on January 26, 2026.

This is the latest update from the official list (https://bluelist.appsplatformportals.us/Cleared-List/), which currently specifies: Manufacturer: American Robotics

Platform: Optimus 1-EX UAS

Date Added: 01/26/2026

The company also recently issued an announcement confirming approval from the DCMA (Defense Contract Management Agency) for the Blue List. What does this mean?

The Blue UAS Cleared List is a "trusted commercial drone" list maintained by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and the Department of Defense, primarily targeting small UAS (sUAS). Drones listed must pass rigorous reviews, including: Cybersecurity compliance

Supply chain security (NDAA compliance, avoiding critical components from restricted countries like China)

U.S. or allied manufacturing (Optimus is marked as originating from Israel)

Operational performance validation

Once listed: The drone can be quickly procured and deployed by the DoD, federal agencies, and the military without lengthy case-by-case security reviews.

For the company, this is a critical threshold for entering the U.S. government and defense markets, significantly boosting commercialization prospects and potentially leading to large government contracts (especially in defense, security, and inspection sectors).

For investors, this is a major positive (what you call "we've been waiting for this day"), as Optimus has already obtained full autonomous flight certification (Type Certification) from the FAA. Now, with Blue UAS approval, the commercial pathway is essentially clear.

In short, this marks Optimus' official upgrade from a "high-end civilian drone" to a "compliant platform for U.S. defense and government missions," equivalent to obtaining a "green channel pass for defense procurement." Congratulations—this is truly a milestone worth celebrating!