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Latest articles and analysis on counter-UAS technology and drone warfare
Ban Chinese Drone Parts? Good Luck - CEPA
The US has implemented a ban on drone imports from both China and Ukraine, aiming for domestic drone dominance, but this policy is predicted to hinder innovation and is likely to fail. Ukraine is rapidly innovating in low-cost drone technology, heavily reliant on Chinese components, and is facing obstacles showcasing its systems in the US due to the ban. The author argues the US should focus on collaboration with Ukraine rather than broad import restrictions.
How Ukraine uses AI to guide long-range drone strikes through electronic warfare and deep into Russian-controlled rear areas - Euromaidan Press
Ukraine is integrating AI into its long-range drone systems to overcome Russian electronic warfare and air defense capabilities. The AI enables autonomous navigation using terrain matching and visual target recognition, allowing strikes deep within Russian-controlled territory. This is contributing to increased Ukrainian strikes on Russian logistics and supply lines.
Israeli startup unveils laser system it says can kill drones in seconds – Fin Market 5150
Israeli startup Esh-Tech is unveiling its DroneLight laser system, designed as a hard-kill counter-UAS solution, at Eurosatory. The system utilizes a 4kW pulsed laser, claiming faster engagement times and lower costs compared to existing laser-based C-UAS systems like Rafael's LiteBeam. Esh-Tech asserts its technology can effectively neutralize drones constructed from both plastic and metal, and mitigate weather-related limitations.
Eurosatory 2026: Updated S-KAPS ready to neutralise drone threat | Shephard
The French SMEs Lacroix, Bertin Technologies, and MC2 Technologies have unveiled an updated S-KAPS counter-UAS system at Eurosatory 2026. This new iteration features a modular design, enhanced computing with protection algorithms, and integration of AI for improved detection. The system combines laser, acoustic, and passive detection methods for 360-degree coverage and utilizes Galix munitions for neutralization.
Picogrid Providing Integration for Perennial Autonomy's Merops
Picogrid's Legion software has been selected as the tactical integrator for Perennial Autonomy's Merops interceptor drone system, a key component of the US air defense strategy. This partnership signifies a move towards integrating 'Ukraine-style' interceptor capabilities into American defenses, and Legion is already deployed with Merops in the Middle East and Ukraine. Picogrid's contract is a substantial win, being their largest to date as a subcontractor on the $500M JIATF 401 IDIQ.
Airbus Defence and Space Partners With Ukraine’s SkyFall to Strengthen Multi-Layered Air Defence Capabilities | EuropaWire
Airbus Defence and Space and Ukrainian firm SkyFall have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on air defence innovation, particularly focusing on counter-UAS technologies and system integration. SkyFall claims to have neutralized over 10,000 Russian drones in combat, demonstrating battlefield-proven capabilities. The partnership aims to bolster Ukrainian air defence, accelerate European defence innovation, and facilitate the entry of Ukrainian defence technologies into the European market.
Finland tests Hornet drone-killing interceptor
Finland is actively developing its counter-UAS capabilities, recently hosting live testing of interceptor drone systems including Destinus' Hornet Block 1. The Hornet Block 1 boasts a range exceeding 75km, a 1.5kg payload, AI-assisted guidance, and crucially, operates effectively in GNSS-denied environments. This evaluation signifies a proactive approach to addressing the evolving drone threat landscape.
Airbus and Alta Ares integrate counter-drone layer - IN Defence
Airbus and Alta Ares have partnered to integrate Alta Ares’ AI-enabled counter-drone interceptors (Pixel Lock, Black Bird, X-Lock) with Airbus’s Fortion IBMS and SAMOC battle-management software. This collaboration aims to create a comprehensive, European-sourced counter-drone system addressing both drone and cruise missile threats. Alta Ares’ systems have been battle-tested in Ukraine since 2024, informing the development of this integrated solution.
Ukraine’s Mirage 2000-5 Fighters: Four Jets, Sixteen Months, And Zero Losses To Russian Fire
Ukraine is effectively utilizing a small fleet of French-supplied Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets (approximately four operational) for air defense, specifically against cruise missiles and Shahed drones. Remarkably, these jets have operated for sixteen months without sustaining any losses to Russian fire. Recent reports suggest Ukraine is now employing these aircraft in offensive roles.
L3Harris Wins Up to $106 Million U.S. Army Contract for VAMPIRE Counter-Drone Systems - GBP
L3Harris Technologies has been awarded a contract worth up to $106 million by the U.S. Army to provide VAMPIRE counter-drone systems. This procurement supports the Army's increasing focus on defending against unmanned aerial threats. The contract suggests continued investment in mobile, short-range air defense solutions.