General Cherry is partnering with French firm Alta Ares to equip its Bullet interceptor drone with a real-time detection and tracking system designed to improve engagements against aerial threats.
Under a memorandum of understanding, the companies will integrate Alta Ares’ Pixel Lock targeting system and Cyclops command-and-control (C2) software into the Bullet drone.
Pixel Lock can guide either a human operator or the drone itself toward a confirmed target by fusing data from multiple sensors and using autonomous guidance algorithms.
The system is designed to maintain mission effectiveness even in GPS-denied environments.
Meanwhile, Cyclops C2 provides sensor-based reconnaissance, mission planning, and flight control.
It processes data from multiple sensors to classify targets, predict trajectories, generate target designation data, and monitor missions from launch through completion.
A Shahed Solution
General Cherry describes the Bullet as “an effective means” of intercepting Shahed-type drones, including the Russian-made Geran series used extensively in Ukraine.
The interceptor reaches speeds of up to 310 kilometers (193 miles) per hour and can remain airborne for up to 25 minutes.
It features a target recognition range of 600 meters (1,969 feet) and carries a 1.8-pound (0.8-kilogram) warhead, allowing it to engage aerial threats at tactical ranges of up to 20 kilometers (12 miles).
Production of New Interceptors
The recent agreement includes the joint development of new interceptor drones, with Alta Ares planning to establish a production facility in Ukraine for its future systems.
Working alongside Ukrainian engineers, Alta Ares will develop two new platforms: the X-LOCK vertical takeoff interceptor and the BLACK BIRD fixed-wing drone.
While few technical details have been disclosed, the BLACK BIRD is reportedly powered by a turbojet engine and is intended for high-speed engagements against aerial targets.
“This future collaboration will significantly improve the accuracy and reliability of intercepting aerial targets, particularly in conditions of limited satellite navigation availability and the active use of electronic warfare systems,” General Cherry told Militarnyi.
