"Shaheed Catcher": Ukraine creates autonomous Sky Sentinel system against drones and missiles
Ukrainian engineers have developed a unique Sky Sentinel system capable of independently destroying drones, barrage munitions and even cruise missiles.
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It was only a matter of time before a similar system was developed, so Ukrainian engineers have just presented Sky Sentinel, an autonomous air defence turret capable of detecting, tracking and destroying air targets on its own. The complex operates without human intervention and can destroy even very small and fast objects. The first prototype has already proven its effectiveness in combat.
The Sky Sentinel is an AI-controlled turret armed with a heavy machine gun that rotates 360 degrees and is capable of hitting targets travelling at speeds up to 800 km/h. It is effective against Shahed drones, reconnaissance drones, barrage munitions and even cruise missiles within its range.
Sky Sentinel anti-aircraft turret with M2 Browning machine gun. Illustration: United24
The system works on the basis of radar data, detects the target, calculates the trajectory and opens fire - all without the help of an operator. Thanks to its precise ballistic calculation, Sky Sentinel can hit targets as small as one-fifth the size of a Shahe-136.
A particular challenge in creating the system was the "backlash" - even a millimetre's displacement of parts can cause a miss. The engineers completely eliminated mechanical errors, achieved synchronised operation of the mechanics and software, and ensured stability even during firing.
The system uses imported optics and rangefinders, but all the software was created by Ukrainians. It works with conventional unguided ammunition, so the cost of one unit is about $150,000 - much cheaper than modern interceptor missiles. To effectively cover one city, it is enough to deploy 10-30 of these units.
Sky Sentinel anti-aircraft turret with M2 Browning machine gun. Illustration: United24
The Sky Sentinel is already in use on the front line, and the team is working to scale up production. Future modifications promise even wider mission coverage
Source: UNITED24 Media
