Fortem Technologies and MBDA are expanding their strategic partnership to integrate autonomous counter-drone systems into air-defense networks used by defense and government customers across Europe and other markets.
The agreement builds on a technical collaboration established in 2024, when the companies integrated Fortem’s DroneHunter autonomous interceptor into MBDA’s Sky Warden counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (C-UAS) architecture. Under the expanded arrangement, MBDA will offer DroneHunter as an additional layer within existing air-defense networks, subject to applicable export authorizations.
The partnership comes as military forces seek to strengthen defenses against uncrewed aircraft, including attack drones used to target military installations and critical infrastructure.
Fortem, which specializes in airspace security and counter-drone technologies, and MBDA, a European developer of complex weapon systems, will also jointly offer FireThorn, an autonomous interceptor developed by the two companies.
Two Interceptor Systems for Different Threats
FireThorn is designed to counter one-way attack drones and other hostile uncrewed aircraft, including Shahed/Geran and Orlan models. It combines Fortem’s high-speed, radar-guided autonomous airframe with an MBDA NATO-approved warhead to destroy incoming threats through kinetic interception.
DroneHunter provides a different approach, using a net-capture mechanism to intercept drones. The system is intended for environments where limiting collateral damage or recovering an intercepted drone for evidence is important.
The two systems give defense operators options suited to different operational requirements, ranging from high-threat engagements to situations involving dense activity near infrastructure or populated areas.
The expanded partnership will allow MBDA to incorporate Fortem’s interception technologies into its broader counter-drone offerings, enabling customers to add capabilities to existing air-defense architectures rather than deploy separate, standalone systems.
Focus on Integrated Air Defense
Fortem CEO Jon Gruen said the partnership would help allied forces integrate autonomous interceptors into established air-defense networks to protect troops, military bases and critical infrastructure.
The companies did not disclose the financial terms of the expanded agreement, anticipated sales volumes or deployment schedules.
