Defender Dynamics has developed Photon interceptor drones equipped with gun systems and automatic target tracking

Ukrainian company Defender Dynamics has developed the Photon line of interceptor drones designed to counter enemy FPV and reconnaissance UAVs. The models are available in frame sizes ranging from 7 to 11.2 inches and can be equipped with different types of gun systems capable of engaging targets automatically. Militarnyi spoke with the project’s founder, and Defender Media recaps the key points.

Between one and six barrels are installed on 7-inch drones, depending on the characteristics of the carrier. A loaded barrel weighs 500 grams, and the drone can fire from all barrels simultaneously or in sequence. The barrels and software for automatic guidance are the company’s own development.

Photon drones are equipped with lidars and cameras of various types – digital, analogue, thermal and twilight. In automatic mode, the drone independently detects the target, calculates the distance and fires. The area of destruction ranges from 0.5 to 5 metres, and the calibre of the cartridges used is 12, shot or slugs, with the option to use other types of ammunition depending on the mission.

The main targets of the Photon drones are enemy FPV drones and reconnaissance aircraft, such as Mavic, Matrice and Autel. Currently, the company is preparing several drones for transfer to defence forces units for combat use.

The next stage of development involves integrating the kit and software with drones designed to engage reconnaissance aircraft such as Zala, Orlan, SuperCam and others.

In July, Defender Media reported that Ukrainian defence tech company 3DTech had unveiled the six-barrel Khyzhak Shooter interceptor drone.