CobraJet autonomous interceptor offers low-cost drone defense solution

CobraJet autonomous interceptor offers low-cost drone defense solution
by Clarence Oxford
Los Angeles CA (SPX) Dec 10, 2024

SkyDefense LLC, headquartered in Brighton, CO, unveiled its advanced AI-powered eVTOL interceptor, the "CobraJet." This tactical, battery-powered autonomous aircraft is engineered to detect, track, identify, and neutralize enemy drones at high speeds exceeding 200 mph. Designed for security applications, CobraJet defends against drone threats to critical infrastructure, borders, military bases, and public venues.

Measuring 6.0 feet in length with a 5-foot wingspan, the CobraJet features a carbon fiber monocoque airframe inspired by the 5th-generation Lockheed F-35B and F-22 jets. Equipped with vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability and thrust vectoring nozzles, the jet delivers exceptional maneuverability. CobraJet is armed with VIPER air-to-air rockets that incorporate patent-pending PYTHON electroshock payloads, enabling it to neutralize kamikaze drones and return for rearming.

The interceptor's propulsion relies on advanced high-energy-density solid-state batteries, while its AI-assisted flight controller and onboard sensors ensure autonomous operations day and night. CobraJet can deploy from mobile platforms such as trucks, ships, or aircraft (e.g., C-130), adding flexibility to its operations.

SkyDefense's command system, known as VRAM (Visual Realtime Area Monitoring) Mission Control, combines AI-powered data analysis with a control interface that keeps human operators in the decision-making loop. This system enables CobraJet to operate seamlessly in contested electromagnetic environments, thanks to jam-resistant radios and GPS receivers. SkyDefense is also exploring Starlink satellite communications to enhance operational efficiency in electronic warfare scenarios.

The CobraJet system can integrate with other command-and-control (C2) systems or function independently as part of SkyDefense's "Distributed Area Defense System." This setup places multiple CobraJets around a designated area to provide early warning and defense capabilities in coordination with SkyDefense's RAPTOR surface-to-air missiles.

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

For law enforcement, DHS, and military applications, SkyDefense offers a mobile configuration where its C2 and VRAM systems are housed in tactical or armored Cybertrucks. This platform is designed for extreme environments, boasting low acoustic and thermal signatures to evade enemy detection.

CobraJet and its mission control systems are slated for availability in the second quarter of 2025.