STRILA and BUREWIY. WIY DRONES Introduces Shahed Drones Interceptors

Ukrainian drone manufacturer WIY DRONES has developed two types of interceptor drones capable of targeting Russian reconnaissance UAVs and Shahed-type loitering munitions.

The systems were presented at DemoDay Brave1, according to Militarnyi’s report.

STRILA is designed to intercept Shahed drones and can reach speeds exceeding 300 km/h. While detailed specifications were not disclosed, the drone features an aerodynamic frame to reduce drag and enhance interception efficiency.

The drone uses software already employed by Ukraine’s armed forces. It can be deployed to the vicinity of enemy drone activity, where the operator manually guides it to the target.

The manufacturer has developed its own propellers capable of handling high-speed operation. STRILA has a flight endurance of 15 to 20 minutes and is equipped with both daytime and thermal imaging cameras, enabling use around the clock.

“In terms of readiness, the drone is at Technology Readiness Level 7, meaning the prototype has been tested under conditions resembling real combat,” a company representative said. “While it hasn’t seen active combat yet, several units are currently testing it along known Shahed flight routes.”

BUREWIY, the second model, is designed to intercept Russian reconnaissance UAVs such as the Orlan, Zala, and SuperCam.

The drone can engage aerial targets flying at altitudes between 1,000 and 2,000 meters and reach speeds of up to 250 km/h.

“This drone uses our proprietary digital communications system and radio controls. It also incorporates Walksnail video transmission technology, which is widely used by the military,” the representative added.

Although not yet deployed to operational units, BUREWIY has undergone a series of tests, including those conducted by Ukraine’s Defense Ministry. The drone is reportedly close to receiving an official codification.

“It’s a matter of weeks or months before the drone is delivered to combat units, either through direct purchase or via the Defense Ministry,” the company noted.

As with STRILA, BUREWIY uses in-house developed propellers.

Both drones can also be launched from specialized mobile platforms, allowing for rapid response to aerial threats.

Earlier, Ukrainian defense forces reported shooting down 17 Russian Shahed drones as part of the Drone Fall initiative by the Come Back Alive Foundation.

Additionally, 30 Gerbera drones, which Russia uses in swarms to overwhelm air defenses, have been intercepted. These UAVs also carry warheads and pose a significant threat.