Ukraine has unveiled for the first time ZIRKA, a new unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to combat enemy air targets. The system was created based on real combat experience with the participation of military specialists, including the Darknode anti-shahid battalion of the 412th Nemesis Unmanned Systems Brigade.
Ukraine has unveiled for the first time ZIRKA, a new unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to combat enemy air targets. The system was created based on real combat experience with the participation of military specialists, including the Darknode anti-shahid battalion of the 412th Nemesis Unmanned Systems Brigade.
As the portal "Military" reports , the direct developer of the platform is the company NOCTIS. The new tool combines automatic detection, tracking and targeting systems. The project was implemented thanks to the investment support of the company Vyriy Industries, which helps the team with expertise and scaling production.
According to the published technical specifications, ZIRKA is capable of speeds of over 340 km/h and operating at altitudes of up to 6 kilometers. The declared range of the complex is 30 km, and the time spent in the air to perform a combat mission reaches 20 minutes. The manufacturers note that the cost of one interceptor does not exceed $2,000, calling it the lowest price on the market among vehicles equipped with similar automatic guidance systems.
Within the partnership, NOCTIS is responsible for interception technologies, software development, and independently carries out sales and technical support. In turn, partners help with building business processes.
“We know what a properly scaled defense company looks like. That is why we invest and share expertise — because the Ukrainian market needs more strong teams. The more such teams and quality products — the higher the chances of winning this technological race,” commented Oleksiy Babenko, Executive Director of Vyriy Industries.
Currently, the engineering team is already working on the next stage of the project's development - an upgraded version of ZIRKA 2.0, which will provide for the automatic deployment of the interceptor into the target detection zone. According to NOCTIS Development Director Oleksiy Komlichenko, the updated version will receive enhanced thermal imaging optics for detecting objects using machine vision at a distance of up to 2 km, as well as improved communication algorithms and automatic detonation of the warhead.
Previously, Vyriy Industries presented a prototype of its new copter-type reconnaissance UAV called SLAVIC, which is intended to become a military alternative to popular commercial drones.
