Ukraine tests Tytan drone interceptor: why gaming console makes it brilliant

Defense Express reported the information.

Ukrainian specialists have begun testing an anti-air drone designed to intercept Russian reconnaissance drones like Orlan-10 and Zala, as well as long-range kamikaze drones like Shahed-136. This was reported by the state military technology development cluster Brave1, although it did not mention the name, but provided a photo that clearly allows for identification.

The drone in question is the Tytan interceptor from the German startup Tytan Technology, which is currently undergoing parallel testing in Germany under the auspices of the Bundeswehr's Cyber Innovation Hub.

The video released two weeks ago (December 11) shows tests of this drone near Ohrdruf in central Germany. It highlights that the drone's development was driven by Ukraine's experience and the need for a cheaper way to destroy enemy drones.

The German startup has also revealed the specifications of the Tytan interceptor drone: a speed of over 250 km/h, a range of over 15 km, a takeoff weight of 5 kg, and a payload, such as a warhead, of up to 1 kg. At the same time, the term "over" is quite broad, as Brave1 mentioned a speed of 300 km/h and a range of 20 km.

The low cost of the drone is due to the active use of 3D printing, with the UAV's body being made in this way. Additionally, the developer positions the container launch for the possibility of equipping armored vehicles with this anti-aircraft system.

The field controller used is the Steam Deck, a fairly powerful (for its size) portable gaming device from Valve. This small detail is a “great marker of positive progress”, especially since the Steam Deck is actively used by Ukrainian developers in various drones and robotic platforms.

A year or two ago, the Bundeswehr likely wouldn't have allowed any developer to use a commercial solution, especially from the gaming industry, for weapon control. The main requirement would have been a military-grade system, developed with a "by the book" approach and a green, shock-resistant casing.

“This is why the Tytan interceptor drone already appears viable. Its actual effectiveness, however, will be proven through tests in Ukraine under the auspices of Brave1,” Defense Express concluded.