21 October 2026
German company Quantum Systems has developed the Apex Recordhunter technology demonstrator, which reached a speed of 777 km/h.
Quantum Systems representatives told Militarnyi details about the project and shared a post on social media.
The company’s N3XT research and development division is responsible for developing the aircraft.
The need for such systems arose from Russia’s use of jet-powered strike drones capable of reaching speeds of 600 km/h, creating demand for faster interceptors.
“Russia is using jet-powered strike drones, such as the Geran-5, with speeds of up to 600 km/h. This creates a need for faster interceptors capable of keeping pace with the evolving threat,” Quantum Systems said.
To achieve high speeds, the developers combined a revised aerodynamic design, a powerful electric motor and a cooling system in a compact airframe.
The drone accelerated from 0 to 777 km/h in 27 seconds.
It reached this speed for a fraction of a second, after which the pilot began slowing down and landed the aircraft.
During the flight, the engineers’ main challenge was ensuring the aircraft’s stability, as even minor deviations create additional drag and consume energy.
The project’s findings are already being applied to the development of new counter-UAV systems.
Apex Recordhunter technology demonstrator. October 2026. Photo: Quantum Systems
Militarnyi previously reported that Germany will fund the production in Ukraine of tens of thousands of Quantum Systems interceptor drones to strengthen defenses against Russian strike UAVs.
The funding will be part of Germany’s military aid package for Ukraine for the winter of 2026-2027.
That’s a spectacular speed for a drone with electric motors. This will be a valuable tool to counter cockroach jet drones.
The speed of technological advancement in this war is astonishing.