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Latest articles and analysis on counter-UAS technology and drone warfare
Air and missile defence: Rafael presents combat-proven systems and counter-UAS solutions for European requirements
Rafael Advanced Defense Systems is marketing its integrated, multi-layered air and missile defense systems, including counter-UAS capabilities, to European customers at Eurosatory 2026. The company emphasizes a layered defense approach utilizing systems like IRON DOME, DAVID’S SLING, and directed-energy solutions (IRON BEAM family) to address evolving threats including drones and stand-off weapons. Rafael highlights the importance of cost-effective, adaptable, and integrated systems for reliable threat interception.
The Drone Trap: Why Sweden Must Think Effects, Not Platforms
This article critiques the tendency in Swedish defense debates to focus on platform-centric arguments (drones vs. frigates) rather than prioritizing the operational effects required to win a conflict. It emphasizes that military capability stems from the integration of platforms, personnel, doctrine, and logistics, not simply possessing the newest technology. The author argues for a shift in focus towards achieving desired outcomes rather than fixating on individual weapon systems.
Russia Blames ‘Expired’ US Patriot Missile for Strike on Kyiv Landmark Cathedral – Despite Shahed Debris at Site
Russia claims a malfunctioning US Patriot missile struck Kyiv’s Lavra cathedral, despite evidence of Shahed drone debris at the site. Ukraine is urgently requesting increased air defense support from the G7, citing Russia’s intent to escalate attacks. The incident highlights the challenges of attributing responsibility in contested airspace and the vulnerability of cultural heritage sites.
AY-400 Spektre s - AURYN Aero
AURYN Aero is developing the AY-400 Spektre s, a high-speed, electric, autonomous interceptor designed to counter low-altitude drone threats. The system emphasizes a lower cost-per-kill compared to traditional missile-based air defense, enabling sustained operations against drone swarms. It is designed for distributed deployment across various platforms and environments.
French army shows Leclerc tank with once-mocked anti-drone cage
The French Army is fielding roof-mounted 'cope cages' on its Leclerc tanks, initially mocked as ineffective, but now recognized as a practical counter-drone measure. This is part of the broader Scorpion modernization program, aiming to extend the Leclerc's service life and inform the development of the future Main Ground Combat System (MGCS). The MGCS is envisioned as a networked system incorporating drones and robotic elements, arriving around 2045.
French army shows Leclerc tank with once-mocked anti-drone cage
The French Army is retrofitting Leclerc tanks with roof-mounted “cope cages” to counter the increasing drone threat, a tactic initially mocked but now validated by use in Ukraine. This is part of the broader Scorpion modernization program, which includes enhanced computing, armor, and remote turrets. France is also planning for a future Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) expected around 2045, envisioning a drone-integrated, AI-driven system.
Counter-drone tech is gaining major traction - Asia Times
Drone warfare is escalating in multiple theaters – Ukraine, the Red Sea, and the Israel-Lebanon border – demonstrating the increasing accessibility and effectiveness of drone technology. Actors like Ukraine, Iran, the Houthis, and Hezbollah are employing drones in innovative ways, including swarm attacks, USV deployments, and sophisticated procurement networks. Current counter-drone systems are proving insufficient to fully mitigate the damage inflicted by drone attacks, despite high claimed interception rates.
Shield AI and Destinus demonstrate autonomous strike and teaming capabilities on an interceptor system in full-mission flight exercise
Shield AI and Destinus successfully demonstrated autonomous strike capabilities against drone threats using the Destinus Hornet interceptor system, leveraging Shield AI's Hivemind AI. The system demonstrated full mission sequencing, including autonomous terrain following and target engagement, in a contested environment simulation. Future testing will move to Ukraine with the Destinus Ruta platform, focusing on multi-system coordination.
Shield AI and Destinus Demo Autonomous Strike and Teaming Capabilities on an Interceptor System in Full-Mission Flight Exercise | ASDNews
Shield AI and Destinus successfully demonstrated autonomous counter-UAS strike capabilities using their Hivemind AI and Destinus Hornet interceptor system in Spain. The system demonstrated autonomous mission planning, terrain following, and target engagement, with plans to transition testing to the Destinus Ruta platform in Ukraine. This marks a significant step towards fielding autonomous systems capable of responding to drone swarms and loitering munitions in contested environments.
Unifly, a Terra Drone Group Company, Signs Partnership Agreement with MBDA, One of Europe’s Largest Defense Companies, to Collaborate on End-to-End C-UAS Solutions – Terra Drone
Unifly, a Terra Drone Group company specializing in UTM, has partnered with MBDA, a major European defense contractor, to develop end-to-end C-UAS solutions. The collaboration will focus on a modular, sovereign platform capable of detecting, identifying, and responding to drone threats, including differentiating between legitimate and hostile drones. This partnership is occurring against a backdrop of increased European defense spending and growing concerns about critical infrastructure security.