A next-gen loitering munition from Belgian firm ALX Systems took center stage at the Brussels European Defence Exhibition (BEDEX) 2026, pointing to a shift toward more flexible, multi-role operations.
Operating at ranges beyond 50 kilometers (31 miles), the system offers an endurance of about 35 minutes, giving operators time to find, verify, and strike targets within a single mission cycle.
It can cruise at 108 kilometers (67 miles) per hour and accelerate further for rapid engagement.
The loitering munition can carry 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) of payload and is typically fitted with an integrated warhead for strikes against vehicles, field defenses, and similar targets.
Alternatively, its design allows the payload bay to house electro-optical sensors, enabling intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions when needed.
The platform also incorporates alternative navigation methods to maintain accuracy in environments where satellite signals are degraded or unavailable.
Portable by design, the weapon can be transported and deployed by small units without relying on large support assets, supporting more distributed and responsive operations in the field.
Locally Built
The program aligns with a wider push across Europe to strengthen domestic defense production and reduce reliance on external suppliers for key systems.
According to the company, the loitering munition was developed with input from military personnel and is intended to support unit-level reconnaissance and precision strike missions.
It is designed as a fully sovereign platform, with its airframe, avionics, propulsion, onboard electronics, and flight software all produced and manufactured internally.
This approach allows for tighter control over supply chains and faster adaptation to changing operational requirements.
