Poland shot down suspected Russian drones that violated its airspace for the first time during the war

Four drones shot down, others lost — Air defense on alert

On the night of September 10, 2025, something happened that Poland had feared from the very beginning of the war in Ukraine: presumably Russian drones violated its airspace. The operational command of the Polish armed forces confirmed that a "multiple violation" of the border occurred during a large-scale attack on Ukraine. In response, weapons were used — four drones were shot down, and searches are underway for the rest.

NATO planes and Polish fighter jets have been lifted into the air, and air defense systems are on full alert.

Tusk has called an emergency meeting, and reservists are being mobilized

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk immediately called an emergency government meeting. In his Twitter account, he confirmed: "An operation is underway involving multiple violations of Polish airspace. Weapons were used against the objects." He is in constant contact with the President, the Minister of Defense and the Secretary General of NATO.

In addition, the Ministry of Defense announced an urgent gathering of reservists. This means that the country is moving to an increased level of defense — not only symbolic, but also practical.

Four airports have been closed, and NATO has activated cover

Due to military activity, four key airports are temporarily closed: Warsaw-Chopin, Warsaw-Modlin, Reshov-Jasionka and Lublin. This decision was recorded in the FAA notifications, although the Polish authorities did not comment on it directly.

Polish and allied NATO planes patrol the skies. Ground-based radars and air defense systems are operating in an enhanced mode. Kiev previously reported that drones were flying towards the city of Rzeszow, but later deleted this statement from Telegram.

This is not an incident, but a signal: the border is no longer calm

For the first time, Poland has officially used weapons against Russian drones on its territory. This is not just a technical violation, it is an event with political overtones. The army called the actions an "act of aggression" rather than an accidental demolition.

Against the background of the upcoming Russian-Belarusian Zapad-2025 exercises, Poland has already announced the closure of the border with Belarus. Minsk called this an "abuse of geographical location."

It's clear now: Ukraine is not the only one who lives on the front line.

Sources

1. Anadolu Ajansı — Poland downs Russian drones that violated its airspace during strikes on Ukraine
2. CNN — Poland scrambles jets, closes Warsaw airport after reports of Russian drones
3. Al Jazeera — Poland downs drones during airspace intrusion as Russia strikes Ukraine
4. Sky News — Poland scrambles NATO defences after Russian drones repeatedly violated airspace
5. Reuters — Poland shoots down drones in its airspace during Russian attack on Ukraine
6. Economic Times — Live updates: Poland downs Russian drones over NATO airspace
7. APA — Polish PM holds emergency meeting on airspace violation

The US Air Force wants to embed atomic clocks in drones to fly without GPS

GPS doesn't work — what should drones do in combat?

Imagine: reconnaissance drones are sent to an area where GPS is completely suppressed. No navigation, no communication, no synchronization. One by one, they get lost, lose their way, and collide with each other. Such scenarios are not fiction, but the reality of modern conflicts. That is why the US Air Force is looking for an alternative. Their new idea is to use atomic clocks directly on board the drones so that the swarm can operate smoothly, even if the satellites are unavailable.

It's not about time accuracy. It's about survival in battle.

Atomic clocks on board: not fiction, but new navigation

In a new request for information (RFI FA2377-26-R-B002), the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) announced its search for solutions for positioning, navigation and synchronization (PNT) systems without relying on GPS. The key element is the New generation Atomic clock technology (NGAC). Previously, such watches were too bulky, but now they have become compact and energy efficient.

If you install them on drones, they will be able to accurately measure time — so accurately that they can calculate their position based on signals from neighboring drones or ground stations, rather than from satellites.

JMPR and NGAC — how to synchronize a swarm without satellites

AFRL/RYWN (Department of Navigation and Communications) is evaluating the creation of a test stand called the Joint Multi-INT Precision Reference (JMPR). He must check how well atomic clocks can synchronize in difficult conditions — with interference, suppression, in urban areas.

The bottom line is that if all the drones in a swarm are synchronized to within nanoseconds, they can use techniques like triangulation, inertial navigation, and data exchange to "sense" each other and maintain formation—like a flock of birds that doesn't need a map.

Why does the swarm need nanosecond precision?

GPS is enough for the average user. But for a swarm of drones that must attack simultaneously, maneuver in narrow spaces and not interfere with each other, any delay in the signal is critical. Atomic clocks avoid the accumulation of errors that quickly render the swarm useless.

Such technologies are the basis for future autonomous operations, where drones do not just fly, but think and act as a single organism.

Sources

1. HigherGov — overview of Joint Multi-INT Precision Reference (JMPR) program
2. Defence Blog — U.S. Air Force eyes atomic-clock tech for drone swarms under JMPR
3. GovTribe — JMPR-related contracts and vehicle details
4. SAM.gov — Joint Multi-INT Precision Reference contract notices

The US Army has learned how to shoot down drones — during the "Return of the Condor" exercises, armored vehicles became part of the air defense system

Fort Hood Exercises: not just maneuvers, but a new look at combat

On August 27, 2025, an exercise called "Return of the Condor" was held at the Fort Hood training ground, Texas. At first glance, this is another series of tactical maneuvers involving M2 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. But it wasn't just practice shooting and movement. It was a breakthrough: the U.S. Army officially incorporated anti-drone tactics into armored operations.

Now the fight against drones is not the task of individual units, but part of the daily work of tank crews and driver mechanics.

Drones vs Bradley — how the armor adapts to the threat from above

The exercises simulated the real conditions of modern combat, in which small drones are not uncommon, but a constant threat. The drones dropped explosive imitators, monitored the movement of equipment and adjusted the "fire". In response, the Bradleys used not only smoke bombs and radio suppression equipment, but also active measures: detection, tracking and coordination of strikes.

It is important that the tactics were practiced not in isolation, but as part of a combat team — as part of the overall picture of the battle.

From defense to offensive — now tanks hunt drones

Previously, armored groups simply tried not to get hit from the air. Now they themselves become part of the air defense system. Machine commanders learn how to quickly identify the type of drone, its trajectory, and transmit data to the network. Sometimes they even use a cannon or machine gun to destroy small targets.

This does not mean that the Bradley has become an anti-aircraft installation. But now he's not just waiting to be undermined—he sees the threat and acts.

Why does this change everything on the battlefield

The experience of recent conflicts has shown that drones can destroy even heavy equipment. Ignoring them means signing your own sentence. "The Return of the Condor" is a signal: the US Army will no longer respond to drones as a surprise. It makes the fight against them the very basis of tactics.

Now every crew has to think not only about the enemy on the ground, but also about those flying overhead. And this is a new reality.

Sources

1. SSB Crack — Operation Return of the Condor marks US Army tactical milestone
2. Army Recognition — US Army integrates counter-drone tactics during Fort Hood exercise
3. YouTube — US Army tests Bradleys against drone threats at Fort Hood
4. DVIDS — Images and videos from Operation Return of the Condor
5. DVIDS — 1st Cavalry Division tests counter-UAS capabilities during Operation Return Condor

The US Army turns Black Hawk into a flying drone nest: a new stage in the war of the future

43 million to rethink the helicopter

The US Army has signed a $43 million contract with Sikorsky, a subsidiary of Lockheed Martin. But we are not talking about new helicopters — the money will be used to modernize the existing UH-60 Black Hawk. The goal is not just to update electronics, but to completely change their role. Now these vehicles should become not only transport, but real mobile bases for drones.

This is not fiction. This is the beginning of a new tactic, where one pilot controls not only a helicopter, but also a whole network of drones around.

How Black Hawk will become a Mother for drones

The essence of the upgrade is to install a digital platform that will allow the helicopter to connect, launch and control several drones simultaneously. Imagine a Black Hawk flying at low altitude, surrounded by a swarm of drones that scout ahead, pick up signals, mask a helicopter, or even attack targets.

The military calls it "drone mothership." Black Hawk turns into a command hub that not only carries soldiers, but projects reconnaissance and fire into dangerous areas without exposing itself.

The digital platform is the basis for the swarm

The heart of the update is a digital architecture built on the principle of open systems. This means that drones from different manufacturers can be connected to the platform, with different purposes — from small scouts to shock models.

This approach simplifies updates and makes the system flexible. One type of drone today, another tomorrow. The main thing is that they "speak" the same language as the helicopter.

What's next: AI and the network in the air

So far, it's about controlling drones by a pilot. However, it is planned to introduce artificial intelligence elements in the near future. For example, drones will be able to choose targets themselves, set a route, or respond to threats without direct orders.

This is part of a broader concept — to create an "in-the-air network" where people, helicopters and drones work as one. Upgrading Black Hawk is not the ultimate goal, but a step towards an army where technology is ahead of the curve.

Sikorsky Upgrades Black Hawk to Carry and Launch "launch effect" Drones

US Army and Sikorsky join forces to integrate drones into Black Hawk helicopters

Sikorsky, a division of RTX, has received a contract from the US Army to modernize UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. The main goal is to adapt the legendary transport helicopters for the transportation and deployment of new tactical unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), codenamed "launch effect" (LVC — Launch, Vehicle, Cargo). This upgrade will be an important step in integrating drones into operational air missions.

Black Hawk's New Role as a Mobile Drone Platform

As part of the modernization program, UH-60 helicopters will be equipped with special compartments and mounting systems that allow for safe transportation of several UAVs on board. Once delivered to the area of operations, the helicopter will be able to deploy drones in the air or on the ground, depending on the tactical task.

This configuration turns the Black Hawk into a mobile command post and drone carrier capable of providing reconnaissance, electronic warfare or strike functions without direct crew involvement in high-risk areas.

What is the "trigger effect" and why is it needed?

The Launch Effect Program (LVC) is a U.S. Army initiative to create low—cost, disposable, or reusable drones that can be quickly deployed from a variety of platforms, including helicopters, ground vehicles, and even other drones.

It is expected that these UAVs will enter service in 2026 and will be used for:

Tactical reconnaissance in hard-to-reach areas

Electronic suppression of enemy communications

Radio signal simulations (masking)

Strike missions against light armored vehicles

Integration with Black Hawk will ensure high mobility and rapid deployment.

The importance of modernization for the future of combat operations

Retrofitting the UH-60 is part of the U.S. Army's strategy to create hybrid air groups where manned and unmanned systems operate in a single network. This corresponds to the concept of "next generation air patrol" (Future Vertical Lift), where helicopters become the "wombs" for drones.

Sikorsky already has experience in this field — previously, the company demonstrated technologies for autonomous flight and drone control from a helicopter using the MATRIX Autonomy system.

The US Army is preparing for the massive introduction of 3D printing

The US Army predicts that additive technologies, in particular 3D printing, will become an integral part of military infrastructure "very, very soon." This was stated by several senior representatives of the department at a recent conference on land vehicles, emphasizing the strategic importance of this technology.

Currently, the army is actively exploring and testing 3D printing capabilities to solve a wide range of tasks. Among them are the production of drone housings, the printing of hundreds of components for armored vehicles and other vehicles, as well as the creation of spare parts directly in the field.

The main advantage of 3D printing lies in its ability to drastically reduce time and logistics costs. Instead of waiting for parts to be delivered from rear warehouses or from other countries, military units will be able to manufacture the necessary items on the spot, right on the front line. This is especially critical in remote or hard-to-reach areas.

In addition, additive manufacturing allows you to quickly adapt equipment to specific missions, speeding up the process of modernization and repair of equipment. For example, if a robotic system or UAV is damaged, you can quickly print the necessary part and return the equipment to service in a matter of hours.

Officials emphasized that the army's goal is not just to use 3D printing sporadically, but to scale its application throughout the unit. Standards for materials, equipment, and processes are already being developed to ensure the reliability and compatibility of printed parts with existing technology.

Yelka interceptor drone: a modern solution for protection from enemy drones

The Russian Yelka interceptor drone is a unique device designed to combat enemy unmanned aerial vehicles on the battlefield. Its main weapon is not explosives, but a kinetic ram: the drone simply collides with the target and destroys it with its body. This principle allows you to avoid explosions and minimize the risk to your own forces.

One of the key features of the "Yelka" is its artificial intelligence and high-precision optoelectronic module. This system is capable of identifying drones with a wingspan of about 1 meter at a distance of 700-1000 meters. The "fir tree" is maximally suitable for intercepting a wide variety of UAVs, including heavy hexacopters, FPV drones and barrage ammunition.

This quadcopter is capable of speeds up to 250 km/h, which gives it the opportunity not only to intercept targets on oncoming courses, but also to catch up with them. The range is about 3 km with a height of 1.5—2 km. The control is carried out by artificial intelligence systems, so it is enough for the pilot to launch the drone, and then the "Yelka" operates autonomously.

Due to its small size and high maneuverability, the device is easy to transport and launch from the shoulder. This is a "pocket air defense" for modern troops, which helps to effectively protect air defense units and systems, including long-range air defense systems.

The Yelka interceptor drones have already passed a combat test and are actively used in the special military operation zone in Ukraine.

Japan will deploy a fleet of Turkish and American drones to protect strategic islands by 2026

By 2026, Japan plans to significantly strengthen the defense of its remote and strategically important islands through the massive integration of Turkish-made and American-made unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This became known from reports from Japanese government sources published on August 12, 2025.

As part of the new defense strategy, the Japanese government is preparing to allocate more than 1 trillion yen (about 6.3 billion US dollars) in the next fiscal year for the purchase of drones for the Self-Defense Forces. These funds will be used to equip the Land, Sea and Air Forces with modern drones capable of solving both reconnaissance and strike missions.

The main focus will be on the protection of island territories, especially in the southwestern region of the archipelago, including disputed areas. Drones will provide round-the-clock surveillance, rapid detection of threats and, if necessary, rapid response to violations of air and sea space.

The fleet will include both American UAVs, known for their reliability and integration with NATO systems, as well as Turkish attack drones such as Bayraktar TB2 and newer models that have already proven themselves in various conflicts around the world. This combination gives Japan flexibility and a variety of tactical options.

The integration of foreign drones is part of a broader modernization program aimed at strengthening offensive capabilities, which marks a shift from a traditionally defensive doctrine to a more active defense.

The US Army is launching an online platform for the quick and convenient purchase of drones like Amazon

This fall, the US Army is going to launch a new online platform for ordering unmanned aerial vehicles — something like Amazon for military technology only. The goal is simple: to simplify and greatly speed up the UAV procurement process for divisions so that they can choose proven drones for price and capabilities directly on the Internet, rather than go through long bureaucratic circles.

This platform will be centralized — all proven and approved drone solutions will be assembled in one place. It will be possible to easily filter options by cost, technical characteristics and performance. The heads of the Office of Aviation Programs emphasize that this approach will help circumvent the complex and protracted procedures of traditional procurement at the Pentagon.

As a result, the army will be able to find and purchase exactly what it needs faster, without unnecessary delays. This is part of a large optimization strategy for the entire supply chain, from drone evaluation to delivery and deployment. So everyone is waiting for a more modern, convenient and fast way to equip combat units with modern unmanned systems.

Drones against drones: US Navy puts Coyotes on destroyers to protect against drones

The US Navy is seriously alarmed: drones are becoming more dangerous, especially after numerous attacks on ships in the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf. And in order not to sit idly by, the navy began urgently installing new weapons on its destroyers — the Coyote and Roadrunner-M interceptors.

We are talking about real "hunter drones" that can fly directly from the deck, catch enemy drones and destroy them — either by a raid or by an explosion nearby. This system is being especially actively implemented on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, which often operate in "hot spots" and have been targeted more than once.

Coyote is a small, fast and smart device that can be launched from a launcher like a rocket, and then independently search for a target. It's not heavy, it's not noisy, and it has a good chance of getting to the kamikaze drone before it can strike. And the Roadrunner-M is an even more modern version, adapted specifically to the needs of sailors.

Why is it so urgent? Because the threat is real: cheap but dangerous drones have already set ships on fire, damaged radars, and forced destroyers to dodge. Just shooting missiles at them is too expensive. But catching a "Coyote" is cheap, efficient, and technologically advanced.

Now these interceptors will be part of the ship's automated air defense system, which detects the threat itself and launches the Hunter. It's like putting a video intercom with a security robot on your house - only instead of a thief in a cap, there's a drone flying at 150 km/h.

Ontario Police may start sending drones to respond to 911 calls — for the first time in Canada

The Ontario Provincial Police is preparing to make a technological breakthrough: it may become the first police service in Canada to use drones to respond to emergency 911 calls. This initiative aims to speed up assistance, increase safety for both citizens and officers, and give police an "eye in the sky" in critical situations.

We are talking about launching drones automatically or almost immediately after receiving an emergency call — for example, in armed conflicts, missing people, suicide threats or incidents with aggressive animals. The drone will be able to arrive at the scene faster than a patrol car and transmit real-time video to the operator, helping to assess the situation without putting the lives of employees at risk.

Although the project is still under discussion and testing, it is already attracting great interest. Some regional units, including the Halton Regional Police and the Peel Police, are already actively using drones — but in more narrow tasks: search and rescue operations, accident reconstruction, tactical surveillance and disaster relief. Ontario wants to go further and integrate drones into the emergency response system itself.

Of course, there are also issues: privacy, data security, flight rules over residential areas. But if everything goes smoothly, drones will become part of everyday police work, like a walkie—talkie or a bulletproof vest. And then Ontario will really be able to say: we are the first.

The Wolf 25 AD is a Slovak mobile vehicle for effective combat against drones in modern aerial combat conditions.

Wolf 25 AD

The Slovak company DefTech has revealed its new miracle, the Wolf 25 AD combat vehicle, which was created specifically to combat drones. This machine is a very important solution for modern conditions where threats from the air change literally on the move.

The Wolf 25 AD is an armored 4x4 vehicle with enhanced mine protection. It was made at the initiative of Ukraine to help protect artillery and command posts from drones. The machine has passed all the tests and is already operating in Ukraine, where it has received good reviews.

Its engine is powerful — 450 hp diesel, maximum speed is up to 100 km / h, travels up to 700 km without refueling. The car weighs about 8 tons, has good protection and suspension to drive on difficult roads. A team usually consists of 4-5 people: a driver, a commander, a technician and a gunner.

The most interesting thing is the armament. On the roof stands the Mangart 25 AD turret with a 25 mm Oerlikon automatic cannon. It can fire very fast — up to 650 rounds per minute. The guns use special projectiles that explode in the air next to the drone, scattering fragments and destroying the flying device. If you miss, the projectile disappears after a few seconds, so as not to damage anything unnecessary. In general, a real "trap" for drones is being created around the car.

In addition, the car has 4 radars with a 360—degree view - they are made by the German company Rheinmetall. They can simultaneously monitor up to 150 aerial targets: small quadrocopters can see from 5 kilometers, and airplanes from 20. These radars are cooled by water and require separate power, but it is thanks to them that the machine catches drones so effectively.

The Wolf 25 AD is not just an anti—aircraft gun, it is a real mobile air defense system that is easily transported and quickly deployed. It is lighter and more maneuverable than its counterparts, such as the American IM-SHORAD. It can be used for various tasks, from protection to reconnaissance and fire support.

The car is currently undergoing large-scale tests in Ukraine, and judging by the reviews, it is performing well. After the tests, the issue of orders and deliveries in large batches will be resolved. This is a very promising complex, especially for the countries of Eastern Europe, where the threat of drones has increased dramatically.

Thailand is on alert: the military has discovered spy drones over strategic facilities — who is behind this?

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) said it has recently recorded mass flights of reconnaissance drones over military bases, government buildings and other important facilities across the country. We are talking about several key regions, including the capital Bangkok, the southern provinces and the border areas. According to the Air Force, these drones are clearly not just being used for amateur photography — they are conducting targeted reconnaissance.

The Thai military has already called what is happening a "serious threat to national security." Experts suggest that drones can be equipped with high-precision optics, thermal imagers and even means of intercepting radio signals. The goal is to collect data on the location of troops, air defense systems, patrol routes and the mode of operation of critical infrastructure.

What is especially disturbing is that drones appear in the sky at night, often near objects that are closed to outsiders. Some of them were seen at an altitude of up to 3 km, which indicates the professional training of operators and the use of military or semi-professional equipment rather than amateur equipment.

In response to the threat, the RTAF command issued clear instructions: all military units and national security services are allowed to use signal suppression systems, drone locators, and even physical interception devices such as lasers or interceptor drones. If the drone does not respond to warnings, it may be shot down or disabled.

The Thai government emphasizes that any use of drones near prohibited areas without permission will now be regarded as a potential act of espionage. And this is a criminal offense with extremely severe consequences. Under current Thai law, charges of espionage can result in life imprisonment. In particularly serious cases, especially if a threat to the sovereignty of the country is proven, even the death penalty is possible.

The countries or organizations behind these flights have not yet been officially named, but there are rumors in military circles about the possible involvement of foreign intelligence services. Some experts point to an increase in activity in this region on the part of States interested in the military and political situation in Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile, the authorities urge citizens to be vigilant: if you notice a suspicious drone, especially at night or near military installations, immediately inform the police or the Air Force hotline. Any attempts to take videos or photographs of such drones can also be perceived as suspicious activity.

The situation remains tense. Thailand, traditionally known as a stable country in the region, is now facing new challenges — in the era of drones and digital espionage, even the skies are no longer considered safe.

Germany is building the army of the future: The Bundeswehr 2040 is preparing for a digital and high-tech war

 

Germany has announced a large-scale transformation of its army. The goal is to create a fundamentally new, high—tech and digital armed force, known as the Bundeswehr 2040. This project is a response to the changing nature of threats and the rapid technological progress that is already shaping modern conflicts.

The essence of the reform is the abandonment of outdated concepts and the transition to an "army of the future" capable of operating in conditions of hybrid warfare, cyber attacks, space threats and the mass use of drones. A key element will be the deep digitalization of all processes: from command and communications to logistics and intelligence. It is planned to create a single, secure digital network that will unite all branches of the armed forces, providing instant data exchange and real-time decision-making.

Special attention is paid to automation and robotics. Thousands of ground and aerial unmanned systems will be integrated into the Bundeswehr 2040 structure, from reconnaissance drones to robotic infantry escort vehicles and autonomous fire support platforms. These "unpopulated" systems will reduce risks for soldiers and perform tasks in the most dangerous areas.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is also in the spotlight. It will be used to analyze huge amounts of intelligence data, predict enemy actions, optimize supply routes, and even support tactical decision-making on the battlefield. In addition, Germany is investing in the development of cyber and space forces, recognizing these areas as new theaters of military operations.

This transformation will require not only huge financial investments, but also deep personnel changes. The army of the future will need not only fighters, but also cybersecurity specialists, programmers, robotics engineers, and data analysts. Bundeswehr 2040 is an ambitious attempt by Germany not just to modernize the army, but to completely reboot it, making it one of the most technologically advanced in Europe.

The US Army has invested 265 million in a "shield" against drones and missiles: the IFPC system is being updated

 The US Army has made a serious bet on strengthening its air defense. Dynetics Inc. of Huntsville, Alabama, has received a new contract worth $264.6 million to further improve its IFPC (Indirect Fire Protection Capability) system, which can be translated as "Area—based Fire Protection Capability."

This system is one of the key elements of the army's plan to protect its bases, logistics facilities and allies from the rapidly changing landscape of aerial threats. Modern combat involves not only ballistic missiles, but also drones (including disposable FPV drones), cruise missiles, and other small, low—flying targets that traditional air defenses are difficult to intercept.

The IFPC upgrade with this major contract aims to make the system even more efficient, faster, and versatile in dealing with this "zoo" of threats. The work will be carried out at the Dynetics plant in Huntsville, which is a center for the development of advanced defense technologies.

The investment in IFPC underscores that the Pentagon considers protection against "non-kinetic" and low-profile threats to be a priority in the context of current and future conflicts.

The Ministry of Defense is looking for ideas for its "unmanned partners"

 

The Royal Navy is seeking fresh ideas from industry for the next phase of its Autonomous Collaborative Platforms (ACP) program. The goal is to create a new generation of drones that can truly work in a team with manned fighter jets, whether they are fourth—, fifth-, or even sixth-generation models. These unmanned systems should be able to operate synchronously, enhancing the capabilities of their manned "partners". Special attention is being paid to the possibility of working with aircraft carriers of the Royal Navy, which means the need to develop drones capable of taking off and landing from the deck of an aircraft carrier. The Ministry of Defense wants to use the knowledge and experience of industry to properly shape the development of these unmanned systems. It is expected that such platforms will have a high degree of autonomy and will be able to perform complex tasks, including electronic warfare.

Turkey has released a combat "dog" with missiles

 

KOZ

At the IDEF 2025 international defense exhibition in Istanbul, Turkey stunned the world with its new development — KOZ, a robotic "dog" on four legs that does not just walk and turn, but shoots laser-guided missiles. Yes, you heard right.: This is a real fighting machine, similar to a metal dog, but with a weapon capable of hitting a target from a distance.

The developer is the Turkish company Roketsan, known for its high—precision missiles. KOZ is not a toy, but a serious platform combining artificial intelligence, autonomous navigation and shock capabilities. It can independently patrol complex terrain — ruins, forests, mountains — detect targets and, at the command of the operator or in semi-autonomous mode, deliver pinpoint strikes.

The exhibition showed how KOZ carries miniature laser—guided missiles, the same ones used in other Turkish drones and systems. This allows her to hit enemy armored vehicles, shelters, or manpower with high accuracy and minimal risk to her own.

Why do we need such a "dog" at all? In modern conflicts, it is increasingly necessary to operate in urban environments, where cool equipment — tanks and armored personnel carriers — is vulnerable. But a small, agile robot can penetrate where no human can go and destroy the threat before it strikes.

KOZ's debut is not just a technology show. This is part of Turkey's ambitious strategy to become self-sufficient in defense: from drones to robots, from electronics to missiles. The country is already known for its Bayraktar drones, and now it is moving further into the era of autonomous combat systems.

And although KOZ looks like a prototype so far, its appearance is a signal: the future of war is already here. And it's not really barking, it's shooting.

China shows laser "anti-drones" — how to shoot down UAVs with a beam of light

OW5-A50 laser system

China has once again reminded the world that it is not lagging behind in the technology race — Norinco (aka China North Industries) conducted live firing of its new OW5-A50 laser system at a training ground in Inner Mongolia. And they weren't firing guns, but a beam of light.

The OW5-A50 system is part of the "anti—drone" solutions that are currently trending in all armies of the world. Its mission is to detect, escort, and destroy drones, including small and cheap ones that can be dangerous in large numbers. The laser heats the target to a critical temperature, and the drone simply falls as if de—energized.

The tests were conducted as part of a specialized event dedicated to unmanned technologies and protection against them, and, importantly, with an export orientation. That is, Norinco clearly wants to sell the OW5-A50 to other countries, especially those who are looking for an inexpensive and effective way to combat drones.

Why is this interesting? Because lasers are accurate, fast, and cheap compared to rockets. One shot and you're done, the main thing is to have a reserve of energy. And although such systems will not completely replace traditional weapons yet, they are already becoming a serious element of the air defense of the future.

So China isn't just watching trends — it's actively playing into them. And OW5-A50 is another signal that "lightsabers" are no longer from fiction, but from real arsenals.

Britain is testing kamikaze drones: German startup Alpine Eagle creates "suicides" to destroy UAVs

 

The British army is looking for a way to effectively deal with kamikaze drones, and is now starting to use the same tactics itself. The British Ministry of Defense has launched tests with a new type of drones that not only detect enemy UAVs, but attack them directly with full dedication.

The German startup Alpine Eagle, founded in 2023, became a partner in the project. Despite its young age, the company has already developed a drone capable of intercepting enemy drones in the air — literally sacrificing itself by crashing into a target and destroying it on impact. It's like an "aerial samurai": it takes off, finds an enemy, and both fall.

Such drones are particularly effective against small and cheap UAVs, which are increasingly being used in attacks both in Ukraine and the Middle East. Traditional air defense systems (missiles, cannons) are ineffective against them — they are too expensive. But a kamikaze drone can be a cheap, fast and accurate solution.

Testing is still underway, but it is already clear that the future of drone defense is not only in electronic interference or lasers, but also in aerial duels where machines fight each other. And Britain clearly does not want to be left behind.

Turkey has put air defense on wheels: IDEF 2025 showed an anti-aircraft Kaplan with a Teber-2 turret

 

Kaplan ADA

At the IDEF 2025 exhibition in Istanbul, the Turkish company FNSS presented not just a new machine, but a serious response to the main threat of modern wars: drones. Meet Kaplan ADA, a mobile anti-aircraft complex on a tracked platform, equipped with a powerful Teber-2 TMT turret. It's not just a tank with a cannon—it's the eyes, ears, and fists of mechanized units fighting for the sky.

The main idea is simple: previously, air defense was either stationary or lagged behind the advancing troops. And drones, as we see in Ukraine and the Middle East, are hitting precisely the frontline positions. So, Kaplan ADA closes this gap — it rides with tanks and armored personnel carriers and can shoot down an enemy drone, helicopter or even a cruise missile at any second.

The Teber-2 TMT tower is the heart of the system. It has a 30 or 35 mm cannon (depending on the configuration), a radar, a thermal imager and a laser rangefinder. The machine detects targets by itself, accompanies them and fires — even at night and in the rain. And all this is at speed, without stopping.

For Turkey, this is not just a novelty, but part of a larger strategy: to create fully domestic, integrated combat platforms. No dependence on foreign supplies — everything is your own: from armor to software.

In an environment where drones are flying everywhere, and control of the air decides the outcome of the battle, Kaplan ADA is just what you need. This is not just an anti-aircraft gun on tracks. This is a mobile shield for an entire combat group, capable of surviving and winning the hottest conflict.