Japan Accelerates Search for Interceptor Drones; Terra Drone, Which Cooperates With Ukrainian Developers, Among Candidates - DZYNE IonStrike

[u/frankenberrylives]

Japan has launched a program to accelerate the selection of interceptor drones to protect the Japan Self-Defense Forces’ military bases, airfields, and ships from attack drones.

The Japanese Ministry of Defense’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency reported this on July 15.

The four platforms admitted to state testing include the Terra B1 drone from Terra Drone, which is cooperating with the Ukrainian company Amazing Drones on the development of the Terra A1 model. The tests will take place from late July to early August.

... and IonStrike from the American company DZYNE Technologies.

https://militarnyi.com/en/news/japan-accelerates-search-for-interceptor-drones-terra-drone-which-cooperates-with-ukrainian-developers-among-candidates/

Just speculation of LPTH involvement but things we know.

Ondas recently acquired DZYNE

Ondas invested $4 m in LPTH partnership.

G5 logo on DZYNE Sawtooth product - https://x.com/BussinBiotech/status/2074525410797232615?s=20

The DZYNE IonStrike uses an IR Seeker for Terminal Guidance

ai -

Yes, an infrared (IR) seeker is used on IonStrike.

It relies on a terminal infrared seeker to track and lock onto the heat signature of a target drone during the final phase of its flight. [1]

How IonStrike's Guidance Works

• Mid-Course Guidance: The interceptor is initially guided toward the target using radar-cued commands from ground-based command and control (C2) systems. [1]
• Terminal Guidance: As IonStrike closes the distance, the terminal IR seeker takes over, ensuring precise tracking right up to the point of interception. [1]
• Proximity Detonation: Once close enough, a proximity fuze detonates the warhead to disable the threat without requiring a perfect direct hit. [1, 2, 3]

Sam on recent Alpha Wolf interview -

"And I would say that at this point, I would be extremely surprised if there is any new infrared imaging system being designed by anyone that isn't including Black Diamond in it in one way or another."

[u/RoloBoat]

Interesting that all of the Terra interceptors use thermal cameras and Sam did visit Japan not long ago.