A US defence startup, XDOWN, has developed a throwable kamikaze drone designed for special forces and counterterrorism operations. The P.S. Killer (PSK) is a lightweight, football-sized unmanned aerial system (UAS) capable of high-speed, long-range strikes.
Designed for Rapid Deployment
The PS Killer has been developed as a “throw-and-forget” drone, with a design resembling a football for ease of use in the field. XDOWN claims it can be deployed within seconds using a simple three-step process:
- Grab it
- Switch it on
- Throw it
Once airborne, the drone automatically unfolds its wings and propeller blades in under two seconds, allowing it to engage targets with minimal operator input.
High Speed and Long Range
The PSK reportedly reaches speeds of up to 250 km/h (155 mph) and has a range exceeding 60 kilometres (37 miles). However, questions remain about its operational control and targeting capabilities.
- The lack of visible optical devices raises concerns over how the drone identifies and locks onto targets.
- Remote control at long distances typically requires large communication stations or relay systems, which XDOWN has not detailed.
- The drone is expected to operate within a swarm of drones, which could enhance its effectiveness in coordinated missions.
Expanding the Role of Kamikaze Drones
The development of the PS Killer follows similar advances in kamikaze drone technology, including Cummings Aerospace’s Hellhound jet-powered drone. If successful, the PSK could offer a new level of agility and precision for special operations forces.
The company has yet to confirm operational trials or adoption by military forces, but its design suggests a new direction in drone warfare, prioritising speed, portability, and autonomous functionality.
