Airbus has successfully completed the first demonstration flight of its autonomous “Bird of Prey” interceptor drone, designed to counter kamikaze-style unmanned aerial threats.
During the test in northern Germany, the drone independently detected, identified, and engaged a simulated attack UAV using a lightweight Mark I air-to-air missile developed with Frankenburg Technologies.
The system is built on a modified Do-DT25 drone platform and is capable of carrying multiple low-cost, short-range missiles, enabling it to neutralise several threats per mission. The interceptor is designed to integrate into NATO-compatible air defence systems via Airbus’ battle management architecture, enhancing coordinated responses to mass drone attacks.
Airbus highlighted the project as a rapid development success—completed within nine months—and positioned it as a cost-effective solution to a growing military need for counter-drone capabilities in modern conflict environments. Further live-fire tests are planned throughout 2026 to advance operational readiness.
Bird of Prey Demo Flight – Releases Mark I missile