French startup Harmattan AI has begun flight testing a new counter-drone system designed to intercept and destroy enemy UAS without using a warhead. The drone, named Gobi, is part of a contract awarded by France’s Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) and is aimed at providing a cost-effective air defense solution.
Founded just 14 months ago, Harmattan AI has focused on reducing the cost of drone interception through autonomous navigation and a simplified method of target destruction. According to the company, the Gobi drone is capable of engaging targets ranging from small quadcopters (Category 1) to medium-sized UAVs weighing up to 600 kilograms (Category 3).
Gobi is an expendable fixed-wing drone that can reach speeds of up to 250 km/h and intercept targets at distances of up to 5 kilometers. The drone is launched automatically after receiving a signal from a ground-based surveillance system.
During flight, it is guided toward the target area via radio commands. In the final phase of interception, the system switches to autonomous targeting using onboard infrared sensors, radar and computer vision algorithms.
The drone does not carry a warhead. Instead, it is designed to physically collide with its target, specifically aiming to damage the rotor or propeller. Harmattan AI says this design choice helps reduce both the weight and production cost of the system.
Video footage from test trials released by the company shows Gobi successfully intercepting and disabling drones in flight. The drone is not intended to be reusable.
Operational use and limitations
The developers highlight Gobi’s autonomous guidance capabilities and low production cost as its primary advantages. However, the system depends on visual tracking in its final targeting phase, which may limit its effectiveness in poor weather conditions such as fog, rain or snow.
Additionally, unlike systems that use proximity fuses or explosive charges, Gobi must make direct physical contact with the drone to be effective. This could limit performance against maneuvering or fast-moving aerial targets.
Future development
Harmattan AI has not disclosed specific details about production timelines or unit costs. However, the system is being promoted as part of France’s broader effort to develop scalable and affordable counter-UAS capabilities. It is unclear whether Gobi will be integrated into French military forces beyond the testing phase.
CONTENU CONNEXE : France spends €600 million on Counter UAS & surface-to-air defence systems
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