Estonia Builds Drone That Launches Like a Multicopter and Strikes Like a Missile—And Ukraine Is Testing It

Ukraine has tested the Estonian P4P high-speed interceptor, a new system designed to counter fast jet-powered drones, according to its developer, Tallinn-based technology company Alatyr Group, on May 22.

The company says the P4P can reach speeds high enough to intercept jet drones moving at around 500 km/h, a growing threat as Russia works to field faster strike UAVs.

The P4P uses rocket propulsion to rapidly close the distance to its target. The interceptor is designed for vertical takeoff and combines features of a missile with those of an electric multicopter.

Its body has an elongated cylindrical shape, giving it stronger aerodynamic performance during high-speed horizontal flight.

The system is equipped with four powerful electric motors that first lift the interceptor from the ground. After takeoff, a rocket booster activates, accelerating the drone toward its target.

The P4P reflects a wider push among Ukraine and its partners to develop cheaper and faster air defense tools as Russia increases mass drone attacks and experiments with higher-speed UAVs that are harder to catch with conventional FPV-style interceptors.

Earlier, Ukraine revealed new details about Litavr, a high-speed interceptor drone developed by F-DRONES and designed to hunt enemy UAVs at ranges exceeding 40 kilometers.

“The peak distance reached just a few days ago by one of the Unmanned Systems Forces units was 84 kilometers from the takeoff point. That was with the wind, with all the nuances, but it reached the target,” said Stanislav, CEO of F-DRONES.

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