SKYRIPER launches serial production of 15-inch MINOTAUR kamikaze drones

Ukrainian manufacturer SKYRIPER has announced the launch of serial production for its heavy FPV drone, the SKYRIPER MINOTAUR. The platform is specifically engineered for high-intensity combat missions that demand increased payload capacity and enhanced resilience against electronic warfare (EW) countermeasures.

The initial production batch has already successfully completed operational evaluation in active combat conditions.

A defining technical feature of the MINOTAUR is its integration of UMTS/LTE (3G/4G) connectivity, supported by a secure VPN tunnel. According to the developers, this architecture significantly boosts EW resistance by leveraging a broad spectrum of mobile network frequencies and enabling dynamic frequency hopping. Furthermore, internet-based command-and-control allows operators to remain well beyond the enemy’s immediate strike zone.

The UAV is equipped with a system that automatically maintains antenna alignment to stabilise the signal during aggressive manoeuvres. In the event of a link loss, the aircraft is programmed to continue its flight based on preset parameters until the connection is re-established. The company also highlighted that mission planning can be seamlessly coordinated with unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) for joint operations.

The MINOTAUR features a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 14 kg. It is capable of carrying a payload ranging from 2 kg to 5.5 kg over an operational range of up to 25 km, with an endurance of up to 22 minutes.

SKYRIPER is a Ukrainian developer of codified unmanned systems and one of the licensed manufacturers of the state-designed Octopus interceptor. According to the company, more than 60,000 drones have been delivered to over 100 units along the frontline as part of its serial production programme.