Solutions to win: Ukrainian manufacturer readies new Zorelit v5 interceptor drone for front-line delivery
Photo source: LLC Vluchnyk
Ukrainian company Vluchnyk has completed internal testing of its new interceptor drone, the Zorelit v5. Designed to intercept aerial targets, particularly high-speed jet-powered strike UAVs, the aircraft confirmed its stated tactical and technical performance specifications and stands ready for troop delivery, according to the manufacturer.
Militarnyi reported the development, citing information provided by the company, according to Rubryka.
According to the manufacturer, the Zorelit v5 confirmed its stated performance metrics during testing. Vluchnyk stated that the device is ready for supply to military forces.
"We stand open to direct contracts with military units starting today, and following codification, we will make the product available through eBaly as well," noted Stepan Radiboh, Director of LLC Vluchnyk.
The interceptor features a reported maximum speed of 416 km/h and an operational range of up to 47 km on a single charge. At a cruising speed of approximately 200 km/h, its flight endurance is around 17 minutes.
According to the manufacturer, the design accommodates warheads weighing between 300 and 600 grams.
Photo source: LLC Vluchnyk
Intended operational targets
The primary purpose of the Zoreliti v5 is to intercept aerial targets directly along their flight paths.
The company indicates the device is designed to counter reconnaissance drones, as well as Russian Gerbera and Geran-2 drones. The manufacturer specifically highlights its capability to engage high-speed jet-powered Geran-3 and Geran-4 UAVs.
The specified speed of the Zorelit v5 enables it to target aircraft flying at cruising speeds of 300–350 km/h.
At the same time, the manufacturer integrated additional capabilities to automate system operations. Specifically, it can accommodate an automated target detection and tracking system powered by artificial intelligence algorithms.
Another feature includes automated terminal guidance to steer the interceptor toward its target during the final "last mile" flight segment.
SkyMap integration
Vluchnyk also offers integration of the Zorelit v5 with the SkyMap system. This feature provides automated navigation to the target area and calculates the optimal interception trajectory while accounting for battery power consumption.
The manufacturer also claims remote control capabilities and live video transmission over the internet.
The baseline configuration of the Zorelit v5 includes a camera tilt-and-pan mechanism and an ELRS control system, allowing selection of operating frequency bands. The aircraft is equipped with a 2.5 W video transmitter.
The complex also includes a warhead initiation board featuring remote detonation and a physical safety pin.
Photo source: LLC Vluchnyk
Development based on Zorelit v4
Engineers developed the Zorelit v5 based on its predecessor, the Zoreliti v4 interceptor.
According to the company, the previous version boasts successful combat employment experience.
Vluchnyk noted that the Zorelit v4 entered military service and received an official NATO Stock Number (NSN).
During the development of the new version, engineers carried over technical solutions proven in combat with the v4 to the Zorelit v5.
The company also detailed its verification procedures before delivering finished units to clients. Every manufactured interceptor undergoes a control test flight.
The manufacturer stated that it retains video recordings of these test flights. Furthermore, each unit receives individual serial markings, allowing technicians to track specific assemblies and components used during manufacturing.
Earlier, President Zelenskyi noted that the military counterintelligence of Ukraine's Security Service achieved results in countering jet-powered Shaheds, referring to a new drone specifically developed for their interception.
Additionally, military counterintelligence operatives of Ukraine's Security Service deployed the new Ukrainian interceptor drone for a second time in a single day, striking a Russian jet-powered Geran-5 drone.
Background
Ukraine began systematically developing interceptor drones last year. During this time, manufacturers secured grants through Brave1, conducted field tests, and refined their designs. Today, several Ukrainian companies possess proprietary solutions for intercepting aerial targets.
On September 18, Zelenskyi stated that two Ukrainian companies successfully completed combat testing of new interceptor drones, destroying a Russian jet-powered Shahed during trials. Work on the interceptor remains ongoing as specialists fine-tune control systems.
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