German firm Quantum Systems Group is pushing the limits of electric flight with a series of high-speed experiments aimed at advancing future unmanned aircraft and interceptor drones.
The company’s N3XT team recently achieved a top speed of 699 kilometers (434 miles) per hour with its Apex Recordhunter experimental aircraft, reaching the mark during straight and level flight.
Developed over the past year, the aircraft serves as a testbed for advanced propulsion, aerodynamics, and flight control technologies that could later be integrated into future high-speed interceptor drones and other uncrewed platforms.
“For more than a year, this project meant early mornings, late nights, setbacks, breakthroughs, sacrifices, and an unwavering belief that we could push the limits of what’s possible,” said Robert Gardemin, senior prototyping engineer of the N3XT Department.
“We will be back very soon to go even faster and make it official.”
Chasing Faster Interceptors
WIY Drones, a Quantum Systems Group subsidiary in Ukraine, is preparing to pursue two national speed records during upcoming tests.
One attempt will focus on the STRILA Interceptor, which aims to set the record for the fastest first-person view (FPV) interceptor drone carrying a 0.5-kilogram (1.1-pound) payload.
The second will involve the SPYS platform, which will attempt to establish the speed record for an anti-aircraft-class FPV interceptor drone.
“Super proud of the Quantum Systems team, showing our engineering ambition across our Group and reinforcing our commitment to developing world-leading technologies,” said Florian Seibel, co-chief executive officer and founder of Quantum Systems.
