Share Source: Business Insider
Ukrainian company Wild Hornets has developed a next-generation interceptor specifically designed to counter Russia’s “Geran-4” and “Geran-5” jet drones.
Key Takeaways:
- Ukrainian firm Wild Hornets has engineered an advanced interceptor to combat Russia’s Geran-4 and Geran-5 jet-powered drones.
- While skilled pilots can already take down these jet drones, there’s a growing need for enhanced technology to engage faster aerial aggressors.
Wild Hornets Unveils New Interceptor Drone
Russia has long employed the “Geran-2″ drone, a slow, propeller-driven aircraft, in its attacks on Ukraine. However, recent intelligence indicates a rise in the deployment of its jet-powered variants—”Geran-3,” “-4,” and “-5.” These models are equipped with micro-jet engines, enabling significantly higher speeds.
According to Andriy Hrytseniuk, CEO of the Brave1 defense platform, domestic companies are actively creating a new class of interceptors to address this specific threat. One such innovator is “Sting” manufacturer, which is currently testing its successor, dubbed “Sting 2.”
The current “Sting” interceptor reaches speeds of up to 280 km/h, which is adequate against standard “Geran” models but insufficient for the jet-propelled versions. Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) reports that the “Geran-4” can fly at speeds up to 500 km/h and was reportedly deployed as a “countermeasure to the effectiveness” of Ukrainian interceptors.
Experienced drone operators are already capable of downing these jet drones; in early June, one operator successfully neutralized two “Geran-4” drones in succession. However, the task has become considerably more challenging.
Share
This escalating need has led to the development of the “Sting 2.” A representative from Wild Hornets stated that the new interceptor is specifically engineered for the “Geran-4” and “Geran-5,” has undergone combat trials, and is slated for mass production soon.