KRONSTADT, Russia, — June 12, 2026 : Shvabe Holding, an optoelectronics subsidiary of Rostec, has unveiled a new AI-guided counter-drone system designed to protect maritime waters and coastal infrastructure during the Fleet 2026 International Maritime Defence Show in Kronstadt near St. Petersburg.
The automated counter-UAS system is designed to defeat low-speed aerial and surface drone threats. It consists of three main components: a ground-based optical-electronic surveillance station, an operator workstation, and a fleet of interceptor drones.
According to information presented at the exhibition, the optical-electronic station continuously monitors the protected area and transmits real-time imagery to an operator. Once a threat is identified, the operator assesses the situation and authorizes the launch of an interceptor drone.
The interceptor drone is guided toward the target area by the ground station. During the final stage of the engagement, onboard neural-network algorithms take control, allowing the drone to autonomously maneuver and intercept the target without further operator input.
The system follows a human-in-the-loop approach, where a human operator authorizes engagement while artificial intelligence manages terminal guidance. This design is intended to combine human oversight with faster reaction times during the final moments of an interception.
The development comes amid growing concerns over drone threats to Russian naval and coastal assets. Ukrainian forces have used aerial drones and unmanned surface vessels in attacks against Russian warships, naval facilities, fuel depots, radar installations, and infrastructure including the Kerch Bridge.
Speaking at the exhibition, Vadim Kalyugin, CEO of Shvabe Holding and a member of the bureau of the Russian Union of Machine Builders, said protecting maritime areas and coastal infrastructure requires new approaches due to evolving threats.
“Our priority is early detection and rapid recognition of objects, enabling a rapid response to changing circumstances,” Kalyugin said. “In this regard, our holding company is actively improving its optoelectronic devices and systems, integrating artificial intelligence technologies into their operation.”
Shvabe manufactures thermal imaging systems, optical sights, drone sensors, and other optoelectronic equipment. Its parent company, Rostec, is using Fleet 2026, held from June 10 to 14, to showcase developments in maritime robotics and autonomous defense technologies.
The counter-drone system was displayed as a prototype mock-up. Rostec has not released details regarding interception range, maximum target speed, operational altitude, deployment schedules, or production timelines.
The absence of detailed technical specifications currently limits independent assessment of the system’s capabilities and how it compares with other counter-drone solutions under development worldwide.
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