Ukrainian defence technology company Sky Hunter has secured a significant investment to enhance its solution for intercepting Shahed attack drones, according to a statement by Brave1, a defence technology cluster. The investment amount remains undisclosed, but the infusion of capital is set to bolster Sky Hunter’s capabilities in countering airborne threats.
Sky Hunter’s system is designed to guide interceptor drones towards targets such as Shahed drones. The technology automates the interception process by leveraging real-time radar data to direct strike UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) against enemy drones. This advanced automation minimises the need for human intervention, ensuring rapid and precise responses to threats.
Brave1 highlighted that Sky Hunter’s technologies offer rapid threat response, seamless radar and drone coordination, and mission recording for post-operation analysis and tactical optimisation. The system’s flexibility allows it to integrate with various types of interceptors, making it a versatile tool in modern defence strategies.
“The system automates the interception process by using real-time radar data to direct strike UAVs on enemy drones,” stated Brave1, underscoring the system’s advanced capabilities.
The investment into Sky Hunter includes a grant from Brave1 and contributions from several venture firms and a private investor from the United States. Notably, the recent deal involved direct investment into the Ukrainian legal entity, ensuring that the financial benefits remain within the country and contribute to its economic growth. Brave1 played a crucial role in structuring the deal in compliance with Ukrainian law.
Serhii Nazarov, CEO of Sky Hunter, expressed that the funds will support the active development of research and development (R&D) and further improvements to the technology. The company’s website outlines several use cases for the system, including the protection of strategic facilities, drone swarming operations, and defence against various types of UAVs such as Shahed, Molniya, Zala, and Supercam.
One of the key advantages of Sky Hunter is the ability of the drone to independently detect a target, calculate its trajectory, and execute an attack without human involvement. This high level of automation not only enhances operational efficiency but also reduces the risk to personnel.
Ukraine has been actively deploying interceptor drones to counter Russian UAVs and continues to develop this technology. Starting in February, Ukraine and the United Kingdom are set to produce up to 1,000 Octopus interceptor drones per month, further strengthening their defence capabilities.
The investment in Sky Hunter reflects a broader trend of enhancing Ukraine’s defence technologies through international collaboration and innovation. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the development and deployment of advanced interception systems like Sky Hunter will play a crucial role in safeguarding the country’s strategic assets and infrastructure.