California-based defense startup Thermopylae Aerospace has unveiled SPART, a tube-launched interceptor designed to neutralize Group 2 and Group 3 unmanned aircraft systems, as well as turbojet-powered attack drones. Launched from a pneumatic tube, the foldable electric quadcopter reaches speeds up to 350 km/h, operates with a flight endurance of up to 20 minutes, and utilizes thermal guidance to track target threats like Shahed-type drones at a target unit cost of approximately $10,000.
As reported by The Defense News, the platform features a partially reusable design, allowing missed interceptors to be recovered for subsequent missions. The system incorporates its own launcher, RF communications, and command-and-control software compatible with existing radar assets and widely used Ukrainian situational-awareness platforms. Deployable from ground vehicles, naval vessels, manned platforms, and UAVs, the concept provides a distributed defensive layer rather than relying on centralized protection systems.
Founded in June 2025 by Ukrainian engineers, Thermopylae Aerospace completed a full end-to-end demonstration of SPART in mid-July 2026 at Edwards Air Force Base during the US Air Force’s “Game of Drones 26-2” event. The company previously secured $1.6 million in pre-seed funding in November 2025 to expand production, conduct further testing in Ukraine, and support operational deployment.
