Israeli Defense Exports, Azerbaijan Procurement, and Ukraine Robotics
European defense ties with Israel continue despite political friction, while Azerbaijan integrates Chinese air defense with Israeli systems, and Ukraine explores battlefield robotics.
European nations frequently criticize Israel, yet several member states of the European Union continue to tighten ties with Israeli defense industries. Simultaneously, other nations operating Israeli systems choose to integrate equipment from countries whose identities may raise concerns in Jerusalem. This and more features in the weekly defense industries column.
Israeli Loitering Munitions Deal Near the Russian Border
Israeli loitering munitions manufacturer UVision has signed an agreement with Estonian defense firm Landvorai to integrate AI-based autonomy systems from the Baltic firm into its platforms. Under the agreement, Landvorai will develop autonomy software while UVision provides the hardware platforms, creating a joint capability aimed at supporting a NATO military.
The technology developed by the Estonian firm utilizes computer vision and machine learning to assist navigation and reduce operator workload in complex operational scenarios. Landvorai's solutions enable unmanned aerial vehicles to operate with minimal reliance on satellite navigation and continuous radio transmission. The system uses onboard cameras and computing units to provide visual perception and guidance capabilities despite electronic warfare challenges.
UVision is globally recognized for its Hero series of loitering munitions. The most prominent model in the global market is the Hero 120, featuring a maximum range of 40 to 60 kilometers, an operational endurance of one hour, and a warhead weighing approximately 4.5 kilograms. The same loitering munition can be equipped with various warheads tailored against armored vehicles or personnel. The company also produces heavier models, including the Hero 1250, which carries a 50-kilogram warhead, a range of approximately 200 kilometers, and an endurance of 10 hours.
Azerbaijan Deploys Chinese Air Defense Systems Alongside Israeli Equipment
Azerbaijan remains one of Israel's primary defense export clients globally and among Muslim-majority nations in particular. Its military utilizes Harop loitering munitions, Spike tactical missiles, and LORA ballistic missiles. Beyond offensive capabilities, Baku employs advanced defensive systems such as the Barak MX air defense system. However, Azerbaijan diversifies its military procurement, resulting in Chinese air defense systems operating alongside Israeli hardware.
During the traditional ADEX defense exhibition in Baku, Azerbaijan proudly showcased its newly acquired long-range air defense system from China: the HQ-9BE. Regarded as the Chinese equivalent to the American Patriot system, it utilizes two-stage solid-fuel interceptors designed to neutralize threats at ranges of up to 260 kilometers. This system complements Baku's existing Barak MX batteries, as well as Russian-supplied Buk and S-300 platforms.
On paper, the Chinese-made system extends Azerbaijan's air defense range by 30% compared to existing S-300 batteries. However, the operational range of the HQ-9BE drops to approximately 100 kilometers against air-to-surface missiles and roughly 25 kilometers against cruise and surface-to-surface missiles. Each HQ-9BE battery includes four launchers loaded with interceptors standing seven meters tall and weighing close to two tons. Traveling at speeds between 4.0 and 4.2 Mach, the missile carries a warhead weighing approximately 180 kilograms.
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Pursues Robot Army Initiative
Former Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov recently launched a project aiming to build an automated robot army, including humanoid soldiers intended to replace human combatants on the battlefield. The initiative by Fedorov, whom President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed roughly three months ago, has sparked mixed reactions within the international community.
In 2022, we launched a drone army, Fedorov noted. Today, unmanned systems conduct over 95% of strikes. Our strategic bet is on the complete robotization of the battlefield.
This marks the second major venture by the former defense minister in recent months, following his August announcement regarding the establishment of a defense technology firm alongside Palantir CEO Alex Karp. Fedorov's timeline for humanoid combat units is notably ambitious: achieving verified battlefield results within six months and launching offensive operations within 12 months. Breaking Defense noted that international interest in humanoids is evident through initiatives like the U.S. Army's xTechHumanoid competition, though the defense market remains skeptical regarding the near-term feasibility of battlefield humanoids.
Robertek, a Ukrainian unmanned ground vehicle manufacturer founded by Boris Drozhak, expressed skepticism regarding the practicality of humanoid military robots. Our primary goal at Robertek is not to build the most sophisticated unmanned vehicle ever conceived, but to achieve the best possible practical outcome for our country, Drozhak told Breaking Defense. This requires developing scalable, rapid technologies that remain cost-effective and durable on the battlefield.
