The Defence Forces of Ukraine have added the first domestic Alexa Spatium jet drone interceptor to their arsenal. The system is designed to destroy small-sized air, surface, and ground targets in real combat conditions. This is reported by the portal PromPolitInform, citing information from the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.
The new Ukrainian-made jet unmanned aircraft was developed primarily to destroy Russian kamikaze drones of the Geran-3, Geran-4, Geran-5, and Shahed-131 models. Additionally, the system can be deployed against reconnaissance drones, helicopters, and other individual aerial targets.
During testing launches, the interceptor confirmed the tactical and technical specifications provided by the developer. Powered by a turbojet engine, it features a significant operational range, high flight ceiling, and the capability to operate at both low and medium altitudes.
Design and operational flexibility
The Ukrainian UAV system employs adaptable combat tactics, targeting either via pre-set coordinates or in real-time direct guidance mode. It can be fitted with high-explosive fragmentation, shaped-charge, or thermobaric warheads to strike designated targets.
Measuring approximately 1.5 by 1.7 metres, the aircraft is constructed from durable, lightweight composite materials, ensuring high flight manoeuvrability. Preparing and launching the drone from a mobile catapult takes only a few minutes and is executed entirely remotely. If a mission is not completed, the drone can return to its launch point for reuse.
Technical equipment and mobility
To locate and track targets, the interceptor is equipped with infrared and television search-and-targeting systems, alongside secure video transmission and control channels. A high top speed ensures rapid response times, while a lower minimum speed helps conserve fuel.
Thanks to its modular design, the system is highly mobile and can fit inside a standard pickup truck. Since the beginning of 2026, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has codified and authorised 413 unmanned aerial systems for service in the Defence Forces, the vast majority of which were manufactured locally.
Photo: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine
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