SkyDefense, a Colorado-based defense firm, has developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered eVTOL interceptor.

The “CobraJet” is a battery-powered autonomous aircraft developed to detect, track, identify and neutralize enemy drones at speeds that reportedly exceed 200 mph.

Source: SkyDefenseSource: SkyDefense

According to its developers, the CobraJet features a carbon fiber monocoque airframe and vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability as well as thrust vectoring nozzles. The jet is also outfitted with VIPER air-to-air rockets, each of which is fitted with a PYTHON electroshock payload for neutralizing kamikaze drones.

Further, the CobraJet is powered by high-energy density solid-state batteries and equipped with an AI-assisted flight controller/autopilot, day/night camera and inertial sensors for 24/7 autonomous flight. CobraJet is powered by an "electric jet," which is a system that uses turbines housed within a duct and driven by an electric motor to generate thrust.

The CobraJet can also launch from mobile platforms including trucks, ships and other aircraft. The SkyDefense Command and Control (C2) system incorporates visual realtime area monitoring (VRAM), an AI-powered operating system that rapidly analyzes data from CobraJets while ensuring operators remain essential to the decision-making process.

CobraJet is designed to maintain operational effectiveness even in contested electromagnetic environments, using its jam-resistant radios and GPS receivers.

“Our USA-made CobraJet neutralizes hostile drones with its onboard munitions and returns to base for rearming. This approach drastically reduces the cost of counter-drone operations while maintaining stealth and effectiveness against emerging threats, including unmanned surface and ground vehicles,” said Nick Verini, president of SkyDefense.

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