Defence firm KNDS launches suicide drone with startup SeaOwl

KNDS Partners with SeaOwl to Launch Suicide Drone for Port and Vessel Protection

Innovative Defense Technology for Maritime Security

By Florence Loeve

Introduction of the Suicide Surface Drone

PARIS, Nov 3 (Reuters) - Franco-German defence group KNDS and French startup SeaOwl on Tuesday launched a new suicide surface drone aimed at navies seeking protection against a growing number of drone attacks on ports and vessels.

Increasing Threats to Ports and Vessels

Drones are increasingly being used to attack port infrastructure and commercial shipping, including oil tankers and container vessels in the Middle East and the Black Sea since Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

Payload and Production

• Tank maker KNDS will produce the 30 kilogramme explosive payload carried by an unmanned vessel built by SeaOwl, the companies said in a statement.

Deployment and Operational Features

• The suicide drone, so named because it destroys itself once used, can be deployed in swarms, launched from heights of up to seven metres and become operational within seconds using a dedicated launcher, or alternatively be deployed without one, said SeaOwl Technology managing director Mathieu Glade

Response to Incoming Threats

• "When facing an incoming drone targeting a major port or a large oil terminal that needs protecting, the most effective way to respond is with another surface drone capable of moving extremely quickly to intercept and counter it", Glade said.

Market Potential and Competitive Landscape

Potential Clients

• The firm is talking with potential clients in several European and Middle-Eastern countries

Comparison with Existing Solutions

• The solution is more sophisticated than the surface drones Ukraine currently produces, said Glade. Among its competitors, he cited Turkish defence group Aselsan.

Industry Commentary

(Reporting by Florence Loève, Editing by Louise Heavens)