SkyDefense Unveils CobraJet Autonomous VTOL Counter-Drone Jet

SkyDefense has introduced CobraJet, an AI powered vertical takeoff and landing interceptor jet built to counter hostile drone swarms announced in a press release. The multirole aircraft combines battery or turbojet propulsion with autonomous systems that detect, track, and neutralize drones at speeds up to 560 kilometers per hour.

CobraJet uses a modular 3D printed carbon fiber core and is available in five configurations. It can operate autonomously with optical and infrared sensors and an AI assisted autopilot, or under remote control for short range missions. The aircraft’s design allows deployment from mobile platforms such as trucks, ships, or other aircraft.

The onboard interceptor system includes the PYTHON launcher and guided munitions known as COPPERHEAD, CUDA, and VIPER. These ammunition types can disable or destroy small to medium sized unmanned aerial vehicles with reduced collateral risk. CobraJet’s VRAM command system provides real time area monitoring and integrates AI driven visual navigation with anti jam satellite communication.

The extended range hybrid versions, V10 and VT10, can also operate as drone carriers, deploying multiple low cost interceptors from their bay or wings. SkyDefense plans field testing of CobraJet and VRAM in the fourth quarter of 2026, followed by production beginning in the first quarter of 2027.