19 February 2026
At the Munich Security Conference—just held February 16 through February 18—Quantum Systems and Airbus Defence and Space unveiled a new jet-powered target drone. The RAT (Red Air Target) drone went from concept to flight in a swift six weeks—a lesson for all (especially the United States military) who are looking to speed up development times for evolving drone forces.
The dual manufacturing team showcased the key advantages of RAT as its low production cost (although the price was not disclosed at press time) and capability to produce the drones in large quantities. Availability is estimated for early summer 2026.
RAT target drones may also have applications beyond use as cost-effective, real-world training UAVs for ground and air defense combat. In fact, Airbus stated it will deploy the RAT system for "software testing and CCA integration"—a nod to the ongoing development of "loyal wingman" drones. (CCA stands for Collaborative Combat Aircraft.)
Comprehensive tech specs are still secret at this time, but we do know the RAT drone is launched by a catapult and can reach a speed of up to 280 miles per hour. We also know—thanks to Defense Express—that a "visually similiar" drone, in Ukrainian Air Force colors, was demonstrated at a meeting of the initial German-Ukrainian joint UAV production project, Quantum Frontline Industries.
It remains a mystery whether Ukrainian forces have received any RAT drones, or if a non-target variant is being developed as a warhead-equipped strike drone.
Although we don't yet know a fair amount about the RAT system, its unveiling points to the speed at which European-based defense companies are developing new drone capabilities under the pressure of war.
