Quantum Systems and Stark unveil reconnaissance-strike system tested in combat in Ukraine

German companies Quantum Systems and Stark, both with offices and production facilities in Ukraine, have announced the successful testing of a combined reconnaissance-strike system (Hunter-Killer). The VECTOR reconnaissance UAV from Quantum Systems and the VIRTUS loitering munition from Stark were integrated during real combat operations and have already proven their effectiveness on the frontlines in Ukraine.

According to the developers, by seamlessly linking the software of both companies, an integrated sensor-to-shooter loop is created. The networking of the systems reduces the time gap between reconnaissance and effect from hours to minutes, giving modern armed forces superiority of effect on the battlefield.

Unlike conventional ISR and strike systems, which depend on separate software platforms with complex relay structures, VECTOR and VIRTUS operate within an open framework: one mission, one team, one software system. This approach radically shortens the sensor-to-shooter loop, enabling reconnaissance, target identification, strike, and battle damage assessment to be carried out within minutes.

About the Systems

VECTOR (Quantum Systems)

• Fixed-wing vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAS for ISR missions
• Flight time: 180 minutes, range: 60+ km, encrypted mesh network
• Combat-proven in Ukraine, fielded by multiple NATO allies
• AI for automated target detection and tracking

VIRTUS (Stark)

• AI-enabled loitering munition for precision strikes
• Vertical take-off (VTOL) capability, assembled in less than 10 min
• Flight time: 60 minutes; range: 100 km; speed: 250 km/h dive speed; payload: 5kg
• Developed alongside the Armed Forces of Ukraine for maximum operational relevance and deployability

In July, Quantum Systems announced the completion of a strategic deal with Frontline, a Ukrainian robotics startup. Last week, Defender Media reported that Stark raised $62 million in funding from Sequoia Capital and billionaire Peter Thiel. The round boosted the valuation of the company, founded in 2024, to $500 million, making it one of the fastest-growing in the world.