Swedish defence tech startup Nordic Air Defence and Volvo Defense have announced a strategic partnership to develop VIPRO, a compact and cost-effective counter-unmanned aircraft system (CUAS) pod designed for integrated vehicle protection. The collaboration, unveiled at DSEI – Defence and Security Equipment International, aims to integrate advanced technologies such as autonomous systems and anti-drone capabilities into Volvo Defense’s suite of transport solutions. The product is scheduled to launch in 2026.
At the core of VIPRO is the Kreuger 100XR, Nordic Air Defence’s lightweight, software-driven interceptor. Designed for rapid launch from vehicle-mounted systems, the VIPRO combines agility and adaptability, offering a glimpse into how military vehicle fleets could safeguard their operations from above at a price point suitable for mass production.
The urgency of this development is underscored by the evolving battlefield dynamics in Ukraine, where cheap FPV drones, often costing less than $1,000, have become the single largest threat to armoured vehicles. Independent open-source intelligence reports confirm that over 3,500 Russian tanks have been destroyed, with NATO and RUSI assessments indicating that two-thirds were taken out by drones alone. This stark cost imbalance—where a relatively inexpensive drone can neutralise a vehicle worth millions—highlights the critical need for effective vehicle protection against drone attacks.
Despite the proliferation of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and drones on the frontlines, large trucks and troop carriers remain vulnerable to drone attacks. In February 2025, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) placed an order for 775 trucks from Scania and Volvo to support the expansion of the Swedish Armed Forces, reinforcing the continued reliance on heavy vehicles as the logistical backbone of modern militaries.
The partnership between Volvo Defense and Nordic Air Defence reflects a shared vision of advancing sovereign European defence mobility solutions. VIPRO, once integrated with Volvo’s proven vehicle platforms, will be tailored to meet each nation’s unique operational requirements while ensuring interoperability and agility of development. The collaboration also focuses on strengthening European supply and support networks, ensuring long-term readiness and deployment sustainability.
“VIPRO combines Volvo’s legacy of engineering excellence with Nordic Air Defence’s cutting-edge defence innovation and agility to deliver a truly European solution to the number one threat in land warfare,” said Karl Rosander, Co-founder and CEO of Nordic Air Defence. “Together we are shaping a defence solution that is mobile, adaptable, and built to serve the long-term needs of European and allied forces.”
Andreas Svenungsson, President of Volvo Defense, added: “Volvo Defense sees great potential in partnering with defence technology start-ups. Innovations in vehicle protection are not only shaping the future of defence, but also ensuring the resilience of transportation and logistics systems that societies depend upon. Through collaborations like this, we can accelerate solutions that safeguard both military and civilian mobility in an increasingly complex threat environment.”
The Kreuger 100XR, a high-speed kinetic interceptor with an optional warhead, is designed for maximum flexibility and performance. Featuring a fixed-wing design, it offers an intercept range of 3+ km with high manoeuvrability. Future versions are planned to extend its range and introduce foldable wings. Its embedded AI enables “fire-and-forget” operation with autonomous detection, classification, and tracking, while continuous ground control is available in radio frequency-stable environments. Equipped with an integrated thermal infrared seeker, the system can operate in radio-silent autonomous mode when needed. The K100XR’s stackable form factor allows seamless integration onto various platforms and vessels, and its versatile launch mechanism supports deployment from the ground, handheld units, vehicles, boats, and even airborne systems. These features make the concept perfect for integration with VIPRO.
This partnership not only addresses the immediate threat posed by drone warfare but also sets a precedent for future collaborations in defence technology. By leveraging the strengths of both companies, VIPRO aims to provide a robust, mobile, and adaptable solution to safeguard military and civilian assets against evolving threats. As the defence landscape continues to evolve, such innovations will be crucial in maintaining operational superiority and ensuring the safety of personnel and equipment.