F-Drones’ upgraded LITAVR+ interceptor for jet-powered Shaheds flies at over 400 km/h

Ukrainian company F-Drones has unveiled an upgraded version of its LITAVR+ interceptor drone. It was specifically developed to intercept high-speed, jet-powered Shahed-type UAVs and has already demonstrated successful results in real combat conditions, F-Drones CEO Stanislav Khutor told LB.ua.

According to Khutor, LITAVR+ is an upgraded version of F-Drones’ main interceptor, but the new model can reach speeds of 400 km/h and even slightly higher. Other features of the interceptor include proprietary software, a specialised GPS-free navigation system, and a terminal guidance system that allows the mission to be completed without pilot intervention. “And, of course, remote-control technology, which allows the pilot to control the drone from virtually anywhere in the world,” Khutor added.

The original LITAVR interceptor has been used by the Ukrainian military for some time to destroy hostile UAVs. However, the emergence of jet-powered Shaheds in Russia’s arsenal required an increase in the interceptor’s speed and improvements to its other tactical and technical characteristics, the company explained.

The F-Drones CEO confirmed that LITAVR+ has successfully completed factory testing, is now undergoing combat trials, and has achieved confirmed results in destroying the enemy’s jet-powered UAVs, supported by video footage. He added that the product is already available for order by the Ukrainian military.

In July, Defender Media also reported that F-Drones had announced the development of its first fully autonomous copter-type interceptor drone. The system combines the LITAVR UAV with specialised 3D LARAG software, according to the company.