Israeli Drones Integrated into Drone Dome System, Offered for Export via Defense Express

The Israeli defense company Rafael has unveiled new anti-drone solutions, including the Zenith drones, which are set to be integrated into the Drone Dome system. These drones, named Hunter Eagle and Ghost Hunter, were showcased at the DSEI exhibition in London. The Drone Dome system already incorporates the Samson war module and the Lite Beam 10 kW laser system, along with the RlCE detection system and the RER system, which together enable the detection of drones up to 3 miles away.

The Hunter Eagle drone is a classic anti-drone solution from Rafael, designed to target enemy drones by crashing into them. It features a rocket fuselage and is approximately 0.5 meters long, with an estimated weight of 5-10 kg. However, specific details such as speed, color, and flight duration remain undisclosed. The drone is expected to be demonstrated by the end of 2025, with production slated for 2026.

The Zenith drone, an electrooptic system utilizing artificial intelligence, is designed to target and neutralize threats. Unlike the Hunter Eagle, which does not carry a weapon and focuses on collision, the Zenith drone is intended for stand-alone operation. It is expected to be showcased as a scalable model, with the Ghost Hunter variant being a jet drone equipped with two miniature motors, measuring about 1.5 meters in length and weighing between 50-60 kg. The Ghost Hunter is anticipated to be demonstrated by the end of 2026, with full production readiness expected by 2027.

Defense Express, a company associated with Rafael, has noted that the Ghost Hunter drone bears similarities to the Roadrunner drone developed by Anduril, which was showcased in late 2023. The Roadrunner, a jet drone designed for anti-drone missions, has already secured a $500 million contract from the Pentagon. This comparison highlights the growing trend of advanced drone technology being developed and potentially exported by Israeli companies.

The development of these drones underscores the expanding role of Israeli defense firms in the global arms market. As Rafael continues to refine its anti-drone capabilities, the integration of these systems into the Drone Dome platform reflects a broader strategy of technological innovation and export. The implications of such advancements extend beyond military applications, raising questions about the ethical and strategic dimensions of arms exports and their impact on international security.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Ukrainian)