logo
#

Latest news with #militarytechnology

'They Built a Cruise Missile for $150K': Lockheed's New CMMT Drones Shock Defense Industry With Unmatched Power and Price
'They Built a Cruise Missile for $150K': Lockheed's New CMMT Drones Shock Defense Industry With Unmatched Power and Price

Sustainability Times

time2 days ago

  • Automotive
  • Sustainability Times

'They Built a Cruise Missile for $150K': Lockheed's New CMMT Drones Shock Defense Industry With Unmatched Power and Price

IN A NUTSHELL 🚀 Lockheed Martin has introduced the Common Multi-Mission Truck (CMMT), a low-cost vehicle designed for diverse payloads and military applications. has introduced the Common Multi-Mission Truck (CMMT), a low-cost vehicle designed for diverse payloads and military applications. 🛠️ The system includes two versions: the unpowered glide vehicle CMMT-D and the motorized CMMT-X , each with unique launch capabilities. and the motorized , each with unique launch capabilities. 💡 Lockheed employs advanced digital design techniques to accelerate development and production, enhancing efficiency and adaptability. to accelerate development and production, enhancing efficiency and adaptability. 🌟 The CMMT's adaptable architecture positions it as a potential asset for future military programs like the Collaborative Combat Aircraft. Lockheed Martin's recent announcement regarding its development of the Common Multi-Mission Truck (CMMT) system has sent ripples through the defense industry. This innovative, low-cost vehicle, designed to carry a variety of payloads, signals a significant shift in military technology. With its recent successful tests, Lockheed is positioning the CMMT as a game-changer in the realm of standoff munitions. This article delves into the details of the CMMT system, its capabilities, and its potential impact on the military landscape. The CMMT-D and CMMT-X: A New Era of Low-Cost Munitions The CMMT system comprises two distinct versions: the CMMT-D and the CMMT-X. The CMMT-D, an unpowered glide vehicle, is designed for deployment from cargo aircraft using a pallet system, while the CMMT-X, equipped with a motor, launches from the bottom of a smaller aircraft. These designs reflect Lockheed Martin's emphasis on affordability and versatility. The CMMT-D boasts a range of about 500 nautical miles, making it a formidable option for diverse military applications. In contrast, the CMMT-X, with a range of 350 nautical miles, focuses on flexibility and rapid deployment. Both vehicles underscore Lockheed's commitment to revolutionizing military tactics by providing cost-effective, scalable solutions. The introduction of these vehicles aligns with a growing military demand for low-cost standoff munitions. Lockheed's innovative approach integrates different launch methods, including pylon-launched, pallet-launched, and vertical launch variations. Notably, the CMMT-D is anticipated to have a unit cost of approximately $150,000, which is strikingly affordable compared to the high-end AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Missile. This affordability allows for mass production and deployment, offering a strategic advantage by enabling the military to maintain a robust arsenal without incurring prohibitive costs. 'Terrifying Death Ray Unleashed!': China's Laser Mosquito Defense System Annihilates 30 Bloodthirsty Pests Every Second, Astonishing Global Scientists Innovative Testing and Deployment Techniques Lockheed Martin's testing of the CMMT-D and CMMT-X vehicles has demonstrated the practical application of these systems. The CMMT-D was dropped from a Rapid Dragon-type pallet cell, simulating a parachute descent from a fixed-wing airlifter. This method mirrors the Air Force's recent use of pallets for deploying munitions from cargo aircraft. In a recent test, the CMMT-D successfully deployed its wings and executed an unpowered glide to the surface, marking a significant milestone in affordable cruise missile deployment. The CMMT-X, on the other hand, was launched from a pylon under a Piper Navajo turboprop. After separation, the vehicle deployed its wings, and its engine ignited for powered flight. This achievement highlights Lockheed's ability to rapidly transition from concept design to real-world application. Notably, the CMMT-X is a direct descendant of the 2020 'SPEED RACER' concept, which explored expendable systems. This lineage emphasizes the company's commitment to leveraging past innovations to expedite the development of new technologies. Total Shock in the Energy World: This Tesla Rival Just Moved to Take Over a Wind Blade Titan With Its Robot Army Digital Innovations in Design and Production Lockheed Martin's development process for the CMMT vehicles has been accelerated by digital design techniques. These methods have allowed the company to reduce the time from concept to preliminary design review significantly. Lockheed noted that it completed the design review for the CMMTs in half the usual time, facilitated by prior work on the SPEED RACER project. This digital approach not only expedites the development timeline but also enhances the potential for scalable production. The use of digital methods underscores Lockheed's strategic focus on efficiency and adaptability. By integrating advanced digital tools into the design process, Lockheed is setting a new standard for rapid technology deployment. This approach not only benefits the company's current projects but also positions it as a leader in the development of future military technologies. The CMMT system exemplifies how digital innovation can drive progress in defense applications, enabling the military to respond swiftly to evolving threats. 'This Solar Ship Is the Future of River Travel,' Declares Visionary Engineer as 192 Sun-Powered Panels Drive the World's First Inland Marvel Future Implications and Potential Applications The CMMT system's successful testing positions it as a potential asset for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. Although the Air Force has not finalized the characteristics for the next phase of the CCA program, Lockheed's flight-tested design and developed architecture could be quickly adapted to meet emerging requirements. This adaptability is crucial as military technology evolves to address new challenges. Lockheed's focus on low-cost, scalable solutions aligns with broader defense industry trends. As the military seeks to enhance its capabilities while managing budget constraints, systems like the CMMT offer a viable pathway to achieving these goals. By emphasizing affordability and rapid deployment, Lockheed is not only meeting current demands but also anticipating future needs. As Lockheed continues to innovate and refine its technologies, the question remains: How will the integration of such systems reshape the future of military operations and strategic planning? This article is based on verified sources and supported by editorial technologies. Did you like it? 4.5/5 (26)

US bunker buster bombs vulnerable to anti-aircraft shells, claim China's scientists
US bunker buster bombs vulnerable to anti-aircraft shells, claim China's scientists

Yahoo

time3 days ago

  • Science
  • Yahoo

US bunker buster bombs vulnerable to anti-aircraft shells, claim China's scientists

Chinese military scientists have proposed a way to counter the US Air Force's famed GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOP) or bunker busters by revealing an alleged flaw with their design. In a study published in China's Journal of Gun Launch and Control, researchers led by Cui Xingyi from the country's Northwest Institute of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, found a potential weakness in the GBU-57. The study noted that while the MOP's nose is heavily reinforced, its steel sides are just a few centimeters thick, making the weapon vulnerable to anti-aircraft shells. Using computer simulations, the team tested Swiss Oerlikon GDF guns, widely used in the Middle East, including Iran. These guns can fire 36 shells in two seconds, with a 42% kill probability at 1,200 meters. However, the researchers cautioned that this countermeasure requires precise radar tracking, effective electronic warfare strategy, and defense against any incoming attacks. Vulnerable to side strikes On June 22, when the US B-2 stealth bombers launched the GBU-57 bunker busters against Iran's nuclear sites, reports suggested that the strikes faced minimal resistance. These powerful bombs, designed to penetrate deep underground bunkers, successfully hit their targets without encountering significant air defenses or interception attempts. However, Chinese researchers explain that while the GBU-57's egg-shaped nose deflects direct frontal hits, its sides betray a vulnerable area which could be shattered by a couple of anti-aircraft projectiles. For a shell to penetrate, it must strike at an angle under 68 degrees; otherwise, it will simply glance off. Tests show that penetration fails beyond 4,900 feet; but within 3,900 feet, heat and shrapnel can ignite the bomb's inert explosives, the South China Morning Post reported. The method relies on basic World War II armor-piercing calculations. But, there is a tactical challenge: the interceptors must be pre-aimed at a specific point along the MOP's flight path. The closer this aim point is, the more stable the barrels remain, a strategy researchers call 'sniper fire control' tactic. Strategy comes with caveats Cui's team noted that this sniper-style interception method offers several key advantages. Pre-aiming the guns at a specific point along the bomb's path reduces the demands on the servo systems and removes the need for repeated calculations, cutting the response time down to just 1 millisecond. The researchers also emphasized that this approach is feasible with existing technology, making it a practical option for quickly targeting and neutralizing incoming bunker buster bombs. However, while these sniper-style interception tactics sound promising in theory, the realities of combat are far harsher. Air forces can launch mass raids to destroy anti-aircraft interceptors before bomber missions begin, eliminating any potential defense. Additionally, smart bombs often perform final manoeuvres just before impact, making their flight path unpredictable and limiting the opportunity to target within the narrow 3,900-foot effective range, which only lasts for a split second. Furthermore, study experts also cautioned that strategies developed for China's defense systems may not be effective in other regions due to differences in terrain, threat environments, and available technologies.

British drone fires precision missile in world first
British drone fires precision missile in world first

Telegraph

time6 days ago

  • Business
  • Telegraph

British drone fires precision missile in world first

A British-made drone has shot down targets using precision missiles for the first time, in a breakthrough that could help troops repel attacks by unmanned aircraft. The heavy-lift quadcopter was equipped with laser-guided rockets that were successfully fired at flying winged drones during trials this summer over a desert in Utah. It is believed to be the first time a drone of this kind has fired precision missiles to destroy another airborne drone. Berkshire-based Malloy Aeronautics, which made the drone that was used in the test, said it was already in talks with several armed forced that are interested in acquiring the new technology. It comes as Western countries are rushing to overhaul their equipment in the wake of the war in Ukraine, which has highlighted how drones are transforming modern conflicts. Houthi rebel attacks in the Red Sea have also forced US Navy ships to fire missiles – costing millions – to shoot down drones that can be bought for just tens of thousands of dollars apiece. It has prompted a scramble for cheaper methods. Low-cost threat In future, the use of low-cost drones equipped with cheaper missiles may provide one possible solution. Malloy, which is owned by British defence giant BAE Systems, said its T-150 quadcopters currently cost tens of thousands of pounds each to produce. They can then be combined with laser-guided, 70mm rockets developed for the US military which cost in the region of $20,000 (£15,000) each. The drones were originally designed as logistics workhorses that can carry loads of up to 68kg each, allowing them to take over cargo jobs currently performed by manned helicopters. They are already being used by the Royal Navy's carrier strike group to move mail, food supplies and engineering components between the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales and its accompanying ships during their deployment to the Indo-Pacific region. Anthony Gregory, of BAE Systems Air, said: 'Everybody can see what's going on in the world with drone technology. So the counter-[drone] piece is on everybody's lips, and therefore trying to do that in a sustainable and affordable way. 'At the minute, people are having to fire patriot missiles and all that kind of stuff. That's an expensive way of countering a very low-cost threat. So that's the genesis of why we've gone down this avenue.' Malloy and BAE began a programme to modify the T-150 to make it compatible with precision rockets in February. The firing test was then conducted in May at a US Army facility in Utah – destroying targets on the ground and in the air with the laser-guided missiles. A video released by the company shows the drone unloading its rockets in the air, with the missiles slamming into a white van on the ground and a winged drone flying through the air. In the UK, the Ministry of Defence has also partnered with private companies to develop laser weapons that can destroy enemy drones with a blast of intense energy and cost just £10 per shot. Ministers have ordered that the lasers are fitted to at least four Royal Navy ships from 2027. However, Mr Gregory said using drones could be cheaper and would provide armed forces with flexibility when trying to protect critical national infrastructure from attacks by large numbers of enemies. He added: 'Lasers are big and complex. Per shot, they're incredibly cheap. But they are big, expensive, complex bits of kit. The price of a drone is going to be cheaper and you can probably have them in greater [numbers]. And it's the same vehicle that's delivering cargo one day, the next day I might bolt this on and it's doing a counter-[drone] thing for me.' Britain leads the way Neil Appleton, chief executive at Malloy, said the British company was the leading player in heavy lift drones. It has supplied the devices to Ukrainian forces fighting Russia and is constantly improving the technology, he said. Over the past four years, Malloy has gone from building small numbers of drones in one hangar to occupying four hangars. It is now planning to build as many as 1,000 a year after being acquired by BAE last year. 'We've got a habit of doing rapid work to upgrade our drones,' Mr Appleton said. 'And again, we're not talking about cycles of years. We're talking weeks to months at worst.' He said the drones provided a much more affordable way for armed forces to transport supplies, with the vast majority of missions currently involving cargoes weighing less than 50kg. Mr Appleton said: 'If you're using helicopters to move things between ships, it's dangerous and it puts the crew at risk. 'It's also super costly. A helicopter will cost anywhere between £20,000 and £30,000 per flying hour. Our platforms will do that for anything between £100 and £500 an hour.' The company is also hoping to sell the heavy-lift drones in other industries such as oil and gas, where businesses also rely on helicopters to move supplies to and from rig platforms at sea. However, Malloy is preparing to develop its own motors in-house amid concerns that the mechanical components are currently being sourced from China. This was not a problem for the company's civil customers, Mr Appleton said, but militaries preferred that this part of the supply chain was 'on-shored' away from China to remove any risk of disruption.

With Military Drones in Hot Demand, Cantor's Got 2 Stocks You'll Want to Own
With Military Drones in Hot Demand, Cantor's Got 2 Stocks You'll Want to Own

Yahoo

time15-07-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

With Military Drones in Hot Demand, Cantor's Got 2 Stocks You'll Want to Own

War has always been a driver of human invention, and the latest wars in Ukraine and the Middle East are no exception. Both conflicts have been dragging on – the Middle East war for nearly two years, the Ukraine war for three and a half now – and some trends are growing clear. Prime among these: the increasing importance of drone aircraft and high-end air defense systems. Take advantage of TipRanks Premium at 50% off! Unlock powerful investing tools, advanced data, and expert analyst insights to help you invest with confidence. Make smarter investment decisions with TipRanks' Smart Investor Picks, delivered to your inbox every week. Ukraine's strike against the Russian strategic bomber force demonstrated the attack capabilities of military drones, while Israel's 12-day campaign against Iran made clear the importance of air defenses in protecting the home front. Defense sector expert Colin Canfield, from Cantor, has been following the developments in the military field, and sees drone technology as a key point for investors to follow. 'We think investor sentiment has materially improved from 1Q, thanks to pragmatism around U.S. defense budget growth, the sustainability of Ukrainian security funding, and likelihood of continued deterioration of global security architectures. However, we think markets are still under-appreciating both the magnitude and the sustainability of growth for Defense Tech, especially in faster-growing areas like drones, air defense, munitions, and directed energy. We admit valuations are stretched, but we also think shares can quickly approach Space-like valuations, as companies benefit from both a robust catalyst cycle and cash flow environment,' Canfield opined. Against this backdrop, Canfield has singled out two drone-tech stocks that could be well-positioned for gains. But is he alone in his optimism? To find out if other analysts share his view, we turned to the TipRanks database. Let's dive in. Kratos Defense (KTOS) First up is Kratos Defense, a San Diego-based defense contractor that specializes in transformative technologies, platforms, and systems, particularly those applied to drone and aerial target vehicles. The company's main customer base resides in the US national security sector, where the company has important contracts with the US Air Force and Navy, as well as with the US Intelligence Community and the Missile Defense Agency. Kratos has multiple programs under development, including various drones, satellites, and microwave electronics – but the company's leading program, generating the most headlines and hype, is the XQ-58 Valkyrie. The XQ-58 is a stealthy unmanned aerial vehicle being developed under the Air Force's Low-Cost Attritable Strike Demonstrator program. The aircraft has been flying since 2019, is anticipated to enter service in the coming years, and has potential to change the way that air warfare is conducted. In short, the XQ-58 was conceived as the embodiment of the 'loyal wingman' concept, a dedicated, combat-capable drone controlled, or overseen, by a manned fighter aircraft. The XQ-58 can have several roles, ranging from advanced reconnaissance to penetrating air defenses and drawing fire, to delivering air-to-air and air-to-ground ordnance. In addition to its 'loyal wingman' design concept, the XQ-58 is capable of autonomous operations, using a combination of stealth, maneuverability, and high subsonic speed to enhance its survivability. It's a flexible airframe, with applications across multiple Defense Department missions. We should note that, while the XQ-58 may be Kratos's leading program, the company has numerous other projects ongoing, and is actively moving to take on new ones. On the latter, the company announced this past June 11 that it had been awarded a $25 million task order from the US Space Force, to provide support ground system capabilities for the Space Force's Evolved Strategic Satellite Communications (ESS) program. This is a vital satellite communications capability of the nation's strategic nuclear command and control. Turning to the financial results, we see that Kratos reported 1Q25 revenues of $302.6 million, beating the forecast by $10 million and growing 9% year-over-year. The company's earnings in the quarter came to 12 cents per share by non-GAAP measures, or 3 cents per share ahead of expectations. Kratos finished Q1 with $263.7 million in cash and cash equivalents on hand, and the company's consolidated backlog, as of March 30, came to $1.5 billion. This stock was named as a Top Pick by analyst Canfield. In his coverage for Cantor, Canfield noted the XQ-58 as a key driver for Kratos's near-term success, writing, 'While we've seen significant run-ups in share price ahead of X-58's expected entry into services (the stock is up 96% year-to-date), we think this time market sentiment is under-appreciating the upside and sustainability of KTOS' growth algorithm, especially as we consider Group 4-5 drones as not a 'winner take all' as implied by CCA, but part of a series of service-branch solutions where each drone fits each mission. In this setup, we especially like the X-58 as U.S. force structure decisions move from survivable to attrition-derived outcomes.' Looking forward, Canfield believes that Kratos holds a sound position to support further growth, with a solid backlog and a strong proposal pipeline. He says of the company's prospects, 'We also think KTOS has best-in-class potential for assuming a greater role in the microwave electronics and munitions markets, thanks to their work around higher-value systems and classified programs… Taken together, we think KTOS is still early innings in its growth trajectory after years of careful investment in drones, and electronics position itself well to take on more significant Prime-like capabilities.' In all, the Cantor analyst rates KTOS as Overweight (i.e., Buy), and he gives it a $60 price target to suggest a one-year gain of 16%. (To watch Canfield's track record, click here) KTOS shares have a Strong Buy consensus rating from the Street, based on 10 reviews that include 8 Buys and 2 Holds. However, the stock is priced at $51.71 and its average target price of $49.57 implies that it will shed 4% in the next 12 months. Given this discrepancy, watch out for price target hikes or rating downgrades shortly. (See KTOS stock forecast) AIRO Group Holdings (AIRO) The second stock we'll look at, AIRO, is new to the public markets, having started trading on Wall Street through an IPO held just last month. The shares represent AIRO Group Holdings, an aerospace and defense company with four operating divisions, focused on drones and other uncrewed air systems; electric and hybrid vertical lifting aircraft; training for both commercial and military aviation; and avionics and electronics systems. The company got its start in urban air mobility but has quickly learned to adapt its technology to the growing demands of the defense industry. AIRO's leading product is its RQ-35 Heidrun drone, which is produced under license in Denmark for the Danish military. The RQ-35 is a battle-proven, man-portable system, designed to be carried by a single user with a specialized backpack, although it is frequently used by small ground crews. The system does not require access to GPS or related navigation systems for successful deployment, can be controlled from a tablet device, and boasts best-in-class flight time and operational range. Also notable among AIRO's programs is its development of EVTOL systems. These are electric vertical take-off and landing craft, designed to carry a small number of passengers and/or gear over ranges of 20 to 100 miles while operating solely on battery power. They offer advantages in flexibility of basing and deployment, as well as noise reduction. AIRO is developing the technology for urban air taxi and cargo services – but also for emergency response missions. The company is developing EVTOL aircraft based on its patented slowed rotor compound (SRC) technology, which is proven to reduce drag and vibration for a quieter, more efficient flight. As noted, AIRO went public last month through an IPO. The company priced the offering on June 12, with 6 million shares made available at $10 each. When the IPO closed on June 16, 6.9 million shares had been sold, and AIRO had raised $69 million in gross proceeds. Checking in again with Canfield, and the Cantor view, we find the analyst upbeat based mainly on AIRO's drone and EVTOL technologies. He says of the company, 'We think of AIRO's equity story as a case of medium-term drone profits being invested in longer-term EVTOL prospects. Starting with drone dynamics, we think continued RQ-35 orders from NATO partners, DoD Blue UAS certification, and accelerating non-NATO demand can combine to support a robust multi-year growth trajectory. Longer term, we also think RQ-35's mission survivability, alt-PNT integration, and ISR capabilities can provide significant land-and-expand opportunities with NATO + other allies. Turning to EVTOL, we think investor sentiment may continue to be mixed, but we think of AIRO investment as an easy risk-adjusted bet by the company to unlock significant value.' Canfield sums it up by noting the stock's prospects, based on its exposure to the defense sector: 'Taken together, we think shares will track to defense sentiment near term as investors parse through organizations best-situated to execute, with longer-term sentiment progression driven by drone orders, air mobility progress, and avionics/training earnings growth.' For the Cantor analyst, this all adds up to another Overweight (i.e., Buy) rating. He backs that up with a $35 price target, showing his confidence in a one-year gain for the stock of 21.5%. AIRO's Strong Buy consensus rating is based on a unanimous 3 Buys while this new stock's $30.67 average target implies shares have upside of 6.5% in them for the next year. (See AIRO stock forecast) To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks' Best Stocks to Buy, a tool that unites all of TipRanks' equity insights. Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analyst. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment. Disclaimer & DisclosureReport an Issue Sign in to access your portfolio

Ukraine Deploying ‘Tens Of Thousands' Of Interceptors To Stop Shaheds
Ukraine Deploying ‘Tens Of Thousands' Of Interceptors To Stop Shaheds

Forbes

time15-07-2025

  • Politics
  • Forbes

Ukraine Deploying ‘Tens Of Thousands' Of Interceptors To Stop Shaheds

Sting interceptor drones are now being produced at scale by the nonprofit Wild Hornets Ukraine's Defense Procurement Agency has signed contracts for 'tens of thousands' of interceptor drones, according to director Arsen Zhumadilov speaking in an interview published on July 14th. The U.S. decision to supply more Patriot air defence missile batteries to Ukraine is vital to protect against Russian missiles. But stopping the massive drone onslaught is a job for far more numerous interceptor drones. The Numbers Game The strength of the Iranian-designed Shahed drones lies in their vast numbers. The low-cost drones fly at around 120 mph, with similar performance to a WW1 aircraft, and are just as easy to shoot down. The problem is the sheer volume of them. In June Russia launched over 5,000 Shahed-type drones (this includes smaller Gerbera and Parodiya types). The highest number in one night was 728. This is far too many for system like Patriot to handle. The U.S. total production capacity is only around 650 Patriot missiles per year. These missiles cost $3.3 million each – roughly 100 times as much as a Shahed. Patriots are still needed to counter Russia's ballistic and cruise missiles, of which 181 were launched last month . These pose a major threat in addition to the drones. But Shaheds require something that can be scaled up as rapidly as the Russians can make their attack drones. Ukrainian mobile fire groups, like this one using a .50 cal M2 Browning machine gun with special ... More sighting systems, have been a mainstay of the counter-Shahed defense Previously relied on mobile fire groups equipped with anti-aircraft machineguns, thermal imagers and tablet computers. These groups were linked them to a nationwide command-and-control and sensor system which tracks the slow-moving Shaheds. But the Shaheds have switched tactics, flying at 10,000 feet or more, above the ceiling of antiaircraft fire, and plunging down vertically when they reach the target. The rate of downing Shaheds dopped from 95% or more to 86% last month, so around three times as many were getting through. Machineguns cannot reach Shaheds flying at altitude. But small, fast interceptor drones can. Interceptor Evolution As we have seen, in 2024 Ukraine was rapidly modified its ground attack FPV drones, turning them into interceptors to bring down Russian reconnaissance drones. Previously almost immune, the Russian fixed-wing drones were soon being brought down by the hundred. The interceptor pilots, adapting air-to-air dogfighting tactics, became expert in taking out Russian drones , denying them the ability to see targets and direct artillery, rockets, missiles and drone strikes. A Sting interceptor drone It was a small step from reconnaissance drones to Shaheds. The attack drones are more massive, at over 400 pounds, and fly slightly higher and faster than the original FPV interceptors. This has required some design modifications, and we have seen aerodynamic bullet-shaped quadcopters (like Wild Hornet's Sting interceptor) and delta-winged arrow shapes as well as traditional designs. Prices quoted are in the region of $1,000- $5,000 depending on speed, range and endurance, many acquired via private fundraisers like Serhii Sternenko Crucially, production can be rapidly scaled up to meet the magnitude of the threat. But while we know there are lot of Shahed interceptors out there, operational security meant that very little information has been released. Basically, there has been a news blackout on Shahed interceptor operations until now. There have been a few reports of Shaheds brought down by drones and some alleged videos but little official information. That may be changing. This week President Zelensky praised the work on interceptor teams, noting on his Facebook page that "Interceptor drones are performing especially well — already hundreds of Russian-Iranian Shahed drones have been shot down this week," Interestingly we have more from the other side. Scaling Up The Shield Alexey Rogozin. CEO of Russia's United Aircraft Corporation claimed on his Telegram channel media that Ukrainian interceptor drones had downed over 500 Shaheds under the 'Clear Sky' initiative to defend Kyiv, using drones guided by radar and visual systems. This interceptor was unveiled by President Zelensky last year, but no details have been provided. 'In a few months since its launch, the system has intercepted more than 500 Geran [i.e. Shahed] attack drones,' according to Rogozin. 'In fact, we are talking about an urban anti-drone dome built on the mass use of small-sized interceptors, primarily FPV drones. The system includes calculations on vehicles, a monitoring and coordination center and a training center.' Rogozin is confident that big enough waves of Shaheds can break through the interceptors, but notes that they reverse the previous cost equation. Now it is more expensive to attack than to defend. Knocking out hundreds of Shaheds is an achievement, but with Zhumadilov's announcement deployment will shift to a much larger scale. "Tens of thousands [of interceptor drones]. This is what we have already contracted and will continue to contract. Our contracting now, on the one hand, depends on the manufacturer's capacity, and on the other hand, on the state budget's capacity," Zhumadilov told Ukrainian outlet Babel. "We will definitely contract everything that the state budget can afford.' Zhumadilov also said that is a manufacturer can produce more drones than Ukraine can afford, they could be funded by allied countries. This is in line with comments made by President Zelensky last month at the G7 summit, when he said that Ukraine has the drone interceptor technology but would need assistance to scale it up. He noted that the interceptor technology would benefit other countries. This is not likely to be the last war featuring massed long-range drone barrages. Russia's drone attacks have scaled up by a factor of ten in the past year. The interceptor effort is ramping up to match it, and looks like the best hope for stemming the rising civilian casualties returning to the days of 95%+ interception rates. The best hope, that is, until Ukraine's long-range attacks can take out Shahed production centers and stop the problem at its source.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store