Kathrine Frich
Drone usage has exploded since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Drone usage has exploded since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Kamikaze Drones Tested by British Army
The British Army is trialing a new generation of kamikaze drones designed to intercept and destroy enemy drones before they reach British soldiers.
The German-built system, called “Sentinel,” is part of a broader push to enhance the UK’s drone warfare capabilities.
Sentinel System Uses a ‘Mothership’ Drone
Developed by German defense start-up Alpine Eagle, the Sentinel drone system relies on a larger UAV “mothership” that patrols above troops.
Once a hostile drone is detected, it launches expendable interceptors to crash into and neutralize the threat.
Single Pilot Can Control Entire Drone Swarm
The Sentinel’s interceptors are remotely operated by just one pilot, offering a cost-effective and scalable defense option.
It reflects a broader Western trend toward swarm and counter-UAV technologies, prompted by the war in Ukraine.
Ukraine War Has Changed Drone Warfare
Drone usage has exploded since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with cheap quadcopters now responsible for an estimated 70% of casualties on the battlefield.
Their affordability and versatility have made them indispensable and dangerous.
NATO Scrambles to Catch Up with New Drone Threats
In response, NATO countries have stepped up investment in anti-drone solutions, including jamming systems, automated turrets, and kamikaze counter-drones like Sentinel.
The goal is to keep pace with rapidly evolving battlefield threats.
Sentinel Was Tested Under ‘Project Vanaheim’
The drone system was tested in March as part of Project Vanaheim, UK-led field trials involving the US Army and Ukrainian forces.
Early results show promise for wider deployment in NATO-aligned militaries.
Alpine Eagle Eyes UK Expansion
Though based in Germany, Alpine Eagle is planning to expand its presence in the UK.
The firm has raised over £9 million in investment and appointed a former Royal Navy engineer to lead its British operations.
UK Plans to Ramp Up Drone Arsenal
The Ministry of Defence is reviewing long-term drone strategy.
In June, the government announced £100 million to develop drone swarms and plans to field 3,000 strike drones and 1,000 surveillance UAVs.
