ZIRKA Interceptor Drone Successfully Downs Jet-Powered Shahed UAV

Ukrainian-developed ZIRKA interceptor drone has destroyed a Shahed-type jet-powered loitering munition (Geran-4).

The company announced the achievement in a press release.

Equipped with target detection systems, automatic guidance, and a top speed of up to 340 km/h (211 mph), ZIRKA is capable of intercepting and destroying high-speed, highly maneuverable aerial targets, including Geran-4 jet-powered loitering munitions.

The onboard automation autonomously detects, acquires, and tracks the target, leaving the operator responsible only for adjusting the interceptor’s speed to optimize the intercept.

The ZIRKA interceptor drone was first unveiled in late June. The system was developed with support from Vyriy Industries’ investment and engineering expertise.

NOCTIS developed the interceptor. Its engineers designed the system based on real-world combat experience, working closely with military specialists, including personnel from the Darknode anti-Shahed battalion of the 412th Nemesis Unmanned Systems Brigade.

The unmanned interceptor system has a stated operational range of 30 km. The interceptor drone can remain airborne and carry out its combat mission for up to 20 minutes.

Each ZIRKA interceptor is priced at up to US$2,000.

According to the manufacturers, this is the lowest price among comparable interceptor systems equipped with automatic target detection and guidance capabilities.

Vyriy Industries supports the project as an investor and production scaling partner. NOCTIS, meanwhile, is independently responsible for the system’s development, sales, fielding, and technical support.

The next stage of the program is the development of an upgraded ZIRKA 2.0 version.
The upgraded version is expected to feature automatic navigation of the interceptor to the target detection area, further reducing the time required to engage detected aerial threats.