According to the report, this technology was developed by two U.S. tech companies, IronNet and Asterion Systems.
The core component of the system is the high-speed Hitchhiker interceptor drone with an electric engine, designed to seek and destroy enemy drones, including Iranian-designed Shaheds Russia uses to terrorize Ukrainian cities. It offers a more cost-effective solution compared to expensive air defense systems such as Patriot.
Adm. Mike Hewitt, a cybersecurity investor and director at IronNet, described Hitchhiker as a true "game-changer," while Asterion’s technology could provide protection against UAVs on a national level. The system enables the detection, classification, tracking, and destruction of enemy drones through autonomous interceptors launched from various points.
IronNet, in turn, will provide a platform for cyber-resilient collective defense to bolster Asterion’s network. The technology has already been presented to Ukrainian military personnel and commanders working on the front lines.
The partnership between Asterion and IronNet could be a significant contribution to enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities and changing the approach to countering Russian combat drones, he added.