German company Quantum Systems has developed the Apex Recordhunter technology demonstrator, which reached a speed of 777 km/h (483 mph).
The need for such systems arose from Russia’s use of jet-powered strike drones capable of reaching speeds of 600 km/h, creating demand for faster interceptors.
“Russia is using jet-powered strike drones, such as the Geran-5, with speeds of up to 600 km/h. This creates a need for faster interceptors capable of keeping pace with the evolving threat,”
Quantum Systems said. To achieve high speeds, the developers combined a revised aerodynamic design, a powerful electric motor and a cooling system in a compact airframe.
The drone accelerated from 0 to 777 km/h in 27 seconds.
During the flight, the engineers’ main challenge was ensuring the aircraft’s stability, as even minor deviations create additional drag and consume energy.
The project’s findings are already being applied to the development of new counter-UAV systems.
Sources: MILITARNYI, Quantum Systems