US Start-up Develops Inexpensive Drone Interceptor in UAE
A US-based start-up called Powerus has been developing an inexpensive drone interceptor called the 'Guardian' in the United Arab Emirates. The Guardian is capable of reaching a top speed of 340 kph and has a range of 15 kilometers, making it a potential solution to counter the threat posed by Iranian drones.
The design was based on a Ukrainian drone interceptor that showed promise against Russian suicide drones. Powerus produces 3,000 Guardians per month at its UAE facility, which is expected to increase to 15,000 by 2027 due to the product's modular design.
The Guardian has been sold for around $5,000 each and has reportedly had 'hundreds' of confirmed interceptions. Powerus signed a $22.3 million contract on Thursday to protect Middle Eastern oil and gas infrastructure.