Israeli Loitering Munition Demonstrated in Europe: More Than 200 Kilometers, Over Two Hours in the Air

Elbit Systems Germany and Diehl Defence announced today (Tuesday) that they successfully completed a live demonstration of the SkyStriker loitering munition system, known in Hebrew as "Shrakrak." The test, conducted in early September, is part of the companies' strategic partnership to promote the system in the European market.

During the demonstration, the SkyStriker was launched from a launch canister, conducted reconnaissance and tracked a target, and ultimately struck a simulated target. The test also demonstrated the transfer of control over the system at a distance of 80 kilometers, alongside autonomous capabilities for detecting, tracking, and striking targets.

As part of the test, the loitering munition was integrated with the SkyLark 1 eVTOL reconnaissance drone. The integration was intended to demonstrate the system's ability to operate within a broader intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance network, carrying out combined detection-and-strike missions.

The electrically powered SkyStriker is designed to carry out precise long-range strikes. According to the companies, it has an operational range of more than 200 kilometers and can remain airborne for over two hours. Its electric propulsion provides a relatively low acoustic and thermal signature, intended to make it harder to detect.

The system is already in operational use in several countries and enables video reconnaissance, autonomous tracking, and precision strikes. It can be launched from vehicles, containers, aircraft, and EuroPULS launchers, which are relevant, among others, to the German military and other European armies.

The demonstration took place after Elbit and Diehl Defence signed a cooperation agreement in June at the ILA exhibition in Berlin. The companies are promoting SkyStriker in Europe and are considering establishing local production capabilities in Germany, subject to winning relevant programs.