Estonian companies Milrem Robotics and Frankenburg Technologies have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop an unmanned, mobile counter-drone missile capability.
The partnership will integrate Frankenburg’s Mark I guided interceptor onto Milrem’s ground-based autonomous platforms, creating a short-range weapon system for neutralizing low-cost unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
Mark I is designed for mass production using commercial components and is expected to reduce intercept costs by more than 10 times compared to conventional air defense solutions.
Meanwhile, Milrem’s modular robotic vehicle portfolio offers adaptability with modern tactical payloads as it expands into air defense roles.
Aiming for Affordable Capability
The firms said the collaboration will enable rapid repositioning, fast engagement, and sustained operational effect with reduced overhead.
In addition to the hardware, the agreement also covers joint testing, industrial cooperation, and potential localized production to strengthen domestic defense industrial capacity.
The consortium plans to demonstrate the integrated solution within 12 months of signing.
“The era of scarce air defense is ending,” said Kusti Salm, CEO of Frankenburg Technologies.
“Together with Milrem Robotics, we are putting affordable guided missiles on robotic combat platforms … at a scale and cost that was previously economically impossible.”
The companies said the initiative reflects growing demand for scalable counter-UAS solutions as threats expand across military and civilian environments.
“Unmanned and distributed systems are becoming increasingly important in modern defence,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.
“This cooperation allows us to explore how advanced C-UAS effectors can be integrated onto our platforms … while reducing risk to personnel.”
