Fortem and MBDA Expand Autonomous Counter-Drone Partnership

CounterUASWorld Summary

Fortem Technologies and MBDA have expanded their strategic partnership to integrate autonomous counter-drone systems into air-defence architectures used by European and allied defence customers. Building on their 2024 collaboration, MBDA will offer Fortem’s DroneHunter interceptor as an additional layer within existing air-defence networks, with sales subject to export authorisations. The companies will also jointly offer FireThorn, an autonomous interceptor co-developed to defeat one-way attack drones, including Shaheds/Gerans and Orlans. FireThorn combines Fortem’s high-speed, radar-guided airframe with an MBDA NATO-approved warhead for hard-kill interception. DroneHunter uses net capture to minimise collateral damage and enable intact drone recovery, offering complementary options for different operational environments.