Image Source: topwar.ru
At the Unmanned Systems X exhibition, held in Bonn, Germany, the French concern Airbus Defense presented the concept of a new unmanned air defense system LOAD ("low-cost air defense system"). Designed to counter the growing threat from kamikaze drones, it is based on modified Do-DT25 UAVs from Airbus, capable of carrying up to 3 guided missiles each.
They are launched from a catapult, have a range of more than 100 km and are controlled from a ground station. Being integrated into an intelligence network using radar or aerial photography data, they can autonomously search, identify and neutralize targets after authorization for use.
Image Source: topwar.ru
Do-DT25
After completing the task, the LOAD drones return to base and land on parachutes, allowing them to be reused in future operations. The drone is capable of participating in autonomous group missions, coordinating with other drones through a ground control station to achieve maximum efficiency. This makes it particularly suitable for countering mass attacks from UAVs. This approach provides an inexpensive air defense solution that effectively complements existing systems such as the IRIS-T, Patriot, and NNBs air defense systems.
LOAD can be deployed alongside other intelligence platforms such as Eurodrone. This allows the system to operate in areas where ground-based radars do not provide full coverage.
The first flight of the LOAD prototype, initially equipped with two guided missiles, is scheduled for the end of this year, and deployment in combat formations is scheduled for 2027. It is being developed without using components from the United States, which makes it easier to export to international markets.
