British firm unveils AI missiles to defend against Russian drone attacks

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 27 Oct, 02:07 · Archive

British military firm Helsing has unveiled a new air defence system using artificial intelligence and cheap interceptor missiles.

Military firm Helsing has unveiled its new Contra air defence system, designed to counter Russia's advanced jet-powered drones and cruise missiles that have been used against Ukraine. The system uses artificial intelligence similar to Israel's Iron Dome to detect aerial threats and automatically decide whether to launch interceptor missiles. Two new missiles have been designed for the system: the AD-1 Inferno and AD-2 Ambush.

The artificial intelligence can detect and coordinate interceptions against hundreds or even thousands of incoming drones and cruise missiles simultaneously, according to Helsing. The company states that both new missiles cost less than £100,000 each, significantly cheaper than alternatives such as US-manufactured Patriot missiles, which cost more than £3 million and have been used against Iranian drones in the Middle East. The Mirror reports that major parts of the two missiles' development have been done in the UK.

Russia's production of Geran-4 and Geran-5 jet-powered drones has increased significantly in recent weeks, with intelligence reports claiming Moscow can now build 4,000 units a month. These drones can travel at speeds between 270mph and 500mph and reach heights of three miles. The development comes amid concerns that Russian President Vladimir Putin may be planning a sabotage campaign across Europe targeting critical infrastructure, defence firms and military bases.

How it is being reported

• British tech gurus design cheap AI missiles to protect towns and cities across Europe from Russian attacksThe technology is similar to Israel's famous Iron Dome system, which creates a virtual bubble of protection over key elements in the country. The missiles will be operational next year.The Mirror · 27 Oct, 01:49
• British experts design cheap AI missiles 'that can create mini "Iron Domes" to protect towns and cities from Putin attack'The platform has been built in a matter of months to counter Vladimir Putin's most advanced jet-powered drones and cruise missiles, which have caused mayhem in Ukraine in recent weeks.Daily Mail · 26 Oct, 22:25

In this story: Helsing · Vladimir Putin · Russia · Ukraine · Europe · Israel · United States

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