Romania is taking its strike capabilities to the next level with Sahara, an AI-enabled cruise missile built to deliver precision strikes over long distances.
Built by Oves Enterprise, the autonomous weapon weighs just 55 kilograms (121 pounds) and carries up to 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of payload. It can take out high-value targets on the battlefield.
At its core is Nemesis AI for onboard data processing, letting crews adapt the missile for each mission, refine its flight path, and adjust key settings before launch.
Sahara can cruise at 50 meters (164 feet) above ground, adjusting its trajectory to follow terrain, minimize radar visibility, and take advantage of ground clutter for masking.
In terms of propulsion, it uses a turbojet engine and carries about 20 kilograms (44 pounds) of fuel, giving it an operational radius of 200 kilometers (124 miles).
The missile is designed as a fully integrated weapons system rather than a standalone platform, with guidance, software, electronics, and flight controls developed together as a single, cohesive package.
The Road Ahead
Oves Enterprise has reportedly invested over 1 million euros ($1.1 million) in research and development, assembling a team of 25 specialists to bring the project to life.
The first live demonstration is planned for May 2026, with a full showcase of capabilities expected by year’s end.
Once operational, the missile is expected to provide the Romanian Armed Forces with a domestically developed, AI-enabled long-range strike capability that complements existing NATO systems.
“But honestly, this isn’t just about building hardware. It’s about building real capability, end-to-end, here in Romania,” said Mihai Filip, chief executive officer of Oves Enterprise.
“It’s about proving that we can design the full architecture, not just components, and integrate AI directly into the core of the system.”
