Thales presented a new interceptor drone made of carbon fiber with titanium reinforcements during an exhibition in Brussels.
The equipment is designed to neutralize the Shahed type of drones, which are widespread in conflict situations. According to the defense observer NLwartracker the model can reach speeds of up to 360 km/h.
The drone’s structure combines light weight and strength by using carbon fiber in the main body and titanium in critical points. This material is used precisely in areas that require extra robustness without increasing the overall weight, ensuring better performance at high speeds. Visually, the system resembles models developed by MARSS Defense Labs, which has been a partner of Thales since 2021.
This collaboration between the two companies has led to the iNTERCEPTOR series of autonomous drones designed to protect critical infrastructure from airborne threats. One of the main differences of these systems is the absence of explosives; instead, the drones neutralize their targets through direct collision by hitting the enemy UAV with a titanium-reinforced front section.
To locate and intercept its targets, the drone uses an integrated system that combines radar, optical sensors and artificial intelligence, enabling precise tracking and autonomous decisions. Earlier models, such as the Interceptor-MR, already operated at speeds close to 288 km/h. In addition, the system does not require advanced operator training and can automatically return to base if the mission is aborted.
“Spotted at BEDEX 2026 (Brussels): Thales’ kinetic interceptor drone. Max speed: 360 km/h. Targets Shahed-class UAVs via sapient-compliant radar. Fuselage: titanium-reinforced carbon fiber. Brushless motors (low KV 400-800) with optimized props for top speed. Pure ram-kill using… pic.twitter.com/clju1CmnNj
— NLwartracker (@NLwartracker) March 15, 2026
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: X @NLwartracker | This content is created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editors
