Airbus Defence Launches LOAD a Low-Cost Drone Capable of Autonomously Countering Kamikaze Drones
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At the “Unmanned Systems X” trade show held in Bonn, Germany, on March 25 and 26, Airbus introduced its new unmanned air defense system, LOAD (Low-cost Air Defence). Designed to counter the growing threat of kamikaze drones, this system is based on modified Airbus Do-DT25 drones capable of carrying up to three guided missiles each. These drones are catapult-launched, have an operational range exceeding 100 kilometers, and are supervised from a ground control station. Integrated into a surveillance network using radar data or aerial situational imagery, they can autonomously search for, identify, and neutralize targets once engagement is authorized.
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Based on the proven Do-DT25 platform, it carries up to three guided missiles, making it particularly suited for countering mass drone attacks (Picture source: Airbus)
After completing their mission, LOAD drones return to base and land by parachute, allowing for reuse in future operations. Designed for autonomous swarm operations, each unit coordinates with others via the ground control station to maximize effectiveness. Based on the proven Do-DT25 platform, it carries up to three guided missiles, making it particularly suited for countering mass drone attacks. This approach provides a low-cost air defense solution that effectively complements existing systems such as IRIS-T, Patriot, and Germany’s NNbS.
Beyond its role in countering kamikaze drones, the LOAD system can also be deployed alongside reconnaissance platforms such as the Eurodrone. This capability allows it to operate in areas where ground-based radar coverage is incomplete, providing a flexible and adaptive response to emerging aerial threats. The first flight of the LOAD prototype, initially equipped with two guided missiles, is scheduled before the end of this year, with operational deployment planned for 2027. Designed without U.S. components and free from ITAR regulations, it facilitates exportability to international markets.
This system builds on Airbus’ prior work in unmanned systems, particularly under the Remote Carrier program. Tests conducted with Do-DT25 drones in this context validated their ability to operate within combat networks, be launched from aerial platforms such as the A400M, and coordinate missions with manned aircraft via advanced data links. While Remote Carriers were designed for offensive operations under the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, the LOAD system applies these technologies to air defense, enhancing its ability to counter evolving aerial threats.
Drones are becoming an increasingly integral part of European defense strategies, both in reconnaissance and combat roles. As asymmetric threats multiply, the need for adaptable and scalable responses grows. However, Europe faces challenges in developing autonomous and competitive drone solutions, particularly compared to the advancements made by the United States, China, and Israel. Industrial fragmentation and strategic differences among EU member states complicate the harmonization and funding of joint projects. Nonetheless, initiatives such as FCAS and Eurodrone demonstrate a commitment to bridging these gaps and securing strategic autonomy in the drone sector.
In this context, the LOAD system offers a relevant solution. It enhances air defense capabilities while providing a cost-effective and flexible response to the increasing threat of kamikaze drones. By integrating into existing surveillance and defense networks, it improves coordination between manned and unmanned platforms, optimizing military responsiveness and operational coverage. Additionally, its ITAR-free nature strengthens its appeal for European partners, reinforcing the continent’s technological sovereignty in this critical field.
With the development of LOAD, Airbus continues to advance adaptable air defense solutions. Addressing the rise of kamikaze drones and saturation attacks, this system provides armed forces with a strategic tool to bolster their defensive posture in an evolving operational landscape.
{loadposition bannertop}
{loadposition sidebarpub}
At the “Unmanned Systems X” trade show held in Bonn, Germany, on March 25 and 26, Airbus introduced its new unmanned air defense system, LOAD (Low-cost Air Defence). Designed to counter the growing threat of kamikaze drones, this system is based on modified Airbus Do-DT25 drones capable of carrying up to three guided missiles each. These drones are catapult-launched, have an operational range exceeding 100 kilometers, and are supervised from a ground control station. Integrated into a surveillance network using radar data or aerial situational imagery, they can autonomously search for, identify, and neutralize targets once engagement is authorized.
Based on the proven Do-DT25 platform, it carries up to three guided missiles, making it particularly suited for countering mass drone attacks (Picture source: Airbus)
After completing their mission, LOAD drones return to base and land by parachute, allowing for reuse in future operations. Designed for autonomous swarm operations, each unit coordinates with others via the ground control station to maximize effectiveness. Based on the proven Do-DT25 platform, it carries up to three guided missiles, making it particularly suited for countering mass drone attacks. This approach provides a low-cost air defense solution that effectively complements existing systems such as IRIS-T, Patriot, and Germany’s NNbS.
Beyond its role in countering kamikaze drones, the LOAD system can also be deployed alongside reconnaissance platforms such as the Eurodrone. This capability allows it to operate in areas where ground-based radar coverage is incomplete, providing a flexible and adaptive response to emerging aerial threats. The first flight of the LOAD prototype, initially equipped with two guided missiles, is scheduled before the end of this year, with operational deployment planned for 2027. Designed without U.S. components and free from ITAR regulations, it facilitates exportability to international markets.
This system builds on Airbus’ prior work in unmanned systems, particularly under the Remote Carrier program. Tests conducted with Do-DT25 drones in this context validated their ability to operate within combat networks, be launched from aerial platforms such as the A400M, and coordinate missions with manned aircraft via advanced data links. While Remote Carriers were designed for offensive operations under the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, the LOAD system applies these technologies to air defense, enhancing its ability to counter evolving aerial threats.
Drones are becoming an increasingly integral part of European defense strategies, both in reconnaissance and combat roles. As asymmetric threats multiply, the need for adaptable and scalable responses grows. However, Europe faces challenges in developing autonomous and competitive drone solutions, particularly compared to the advancements made by the United States, China, and Israel. Industrial fragmentation and strategic differences among EU member states complicate the harmonization and funding of joint projects. Nonetheless, initiatives such as FCAS and Eurodrone demonstrate a commitment to bridging these gaps and securing strategic autonomy in the drone sector.
In this context, the LOAD system offers a relevant solution. It enhances air defense capabilities while providing a cost-effective and flexible response to the increasing threat of kamikaze drones. By integrating into existing surveillance and defense networks, it improves coordination between manned and unmanned platforms, optimizing military responsiveness and operational coverage. Additionally, its ITAR-free nature strengthens its appeal for European partners, reinforcing the continent’s technological sovereignty in this critical field.
With the development of LOAD, Airbus continues to advance adaptable air defense solutions. Addressing the rise of kamikaze drones and saturation attacks, this system provides armed forces with a strategic tool to bolster their defensive posture in an evolving operational landscape.
