Airbus helps develop unique drone for Ukraine
Photo: drone (facebook.com/MinistryofDefenceUA)
A new generation of target drones is gaining combat capabilities as a German company presented the RAT platform, which can be adapted for Ukraine’s needs by combining system testing with potential use in strike operations, according to Defense Express.
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RAT target drone: rapid development and international cooperation
German UAV manufacturer Quantum Systems publicly unveiled the RAT (Red Air Target) drone for the first time at the Munich Security Conference held from February 16 to 18.
The project was implemented in close cooperation with Airbus Defence and Space and took just six weeks from concept to first flight, a timeline described as record-fast for similar developments.
Advantages and production plans
According to Quantum Systems’ CEO, the drone combines low cost with mass-production potential, with orders expected to open at the end of the second quarter this year.
RAT is designed for cost-effective software testing and CCA integration, acting as a “loyal wingman” drone for testing command-and-control systems and the MOSAIC architecture.
Potential strike role
Defense Express notes that RAT has a visually similar variant equipped with a warhead developed with Ukraine’s needs in mind.
During a visit by a Ukrainian delegation to the joint venture Quantum Frontline Industries, a version of the drone in Ukrainian Air Force livery was demonstrated, suggesting possible adaptation into a mid-range strike UAV.
Technical details
The drone is launched via catapult and powered by a jet engine capable of reaching speeds of up to 450 km/h.
Most tactical and technical specifications remain undisclosed, but RAT’s dual role as a testing platform and potential strike system highlights the flexibility of the design.
The transformation of target drones into strike platforms is not new for Ukraine: similar approaches previously enabled the adaptation of the MQM-178 Firejet and Tupolev Tu-143 Reis for combat missions.
Earlier reports also said Kyiv continues strengthening air defence, with Mayor Vitali Klitschko transferring more than 600 specialized drones to Ukraine’s National Guard to act as mobile air defence units capable of detecting and neutralizing aerial threats while conserving missile resources.
At the same time, Russia continues developing naval drones for potential large-scale strikes, although Ukraine’s military intelligence says consistent and effective combat use with significant results has not yet been recorded.
