Israeli SkyStriker Loitering Munition to Be Adapted for German Armed Forces

The German company Diehl Defence and the Israeli company Elbit Systems are adapting the SkyStriker loitering munition for the German Armed Forces.

To this end, the two companies signed a strategic partnership agreement during the ILA Air Show.

The partnership also includes the localization of the system’s production, assembly, integration, and certification, led by Diehl Defence.

SkyStriker is a fully autonomous loitering munition capable of detecting, tracking and striking operator-designated targets with high precision.

Powered by an electric motor, the drone weighs up to 35 kilograms, can remain airborne for more than two hours and operate at ranges exceeding 200 kilometers.

The system is capable of navigating and carrying out missions even in the absence of GPS signals and under enemy electronic warfare conditions.

SkyStriker can be equipped with several types of warheads weighing 5 kg and 10 kg.

Thanks to its modular design, the warheads can be replaced in the field during launch preparation according to mission requirements.

“Diehl Defence is proud of its partnership with Elbit Systems in the field of loitering munitions, which will contribute to the development of German capabilities in this segment. This cooperation not only strengthens sovereign defense capabilities, but also supports the German defense industry,” Diehl Defence stated.

Elbit Systems President and CEO Bezhalel Machlis noted: “By combining Diehl Defence’s deep experience in systems integration and manufacturing with Elbit’s advanced loitering munitions, we aim to offer the German Armed Forces a powerful solution ready for the challenges of the future.”

In 2023, an unnamed European country ordered SkyStriker loitering munitions.