Diehl Defence and Elbit Systems demonstrate SkyStriker loitering munition

Diehl Defence and Elbit Systems conducted a live demonstration of the SkyStriker loitering munition in early September 2026, following a cooperation agreement between the two companies signed at ILA Berlin in June.

The demonstration focused on the system’s range and its ability to transfer control between platforms. According to Diehl Defence, a “hand-over” was successfully conducted at a distance of 80 km. During the demonstration, a SkyStriker launched from a canister conducted reconnaissance of a target, tracked it and subsequently engaged it. The system also interacted with an Elbit Systems SkyLark 1 eVTOL reconnaissance UAV.

Diehl Defence describes SkyStriker as an electrically powered loitering munition with a range of more than 200 km and a loitering endurance of more than two hours. The company says its electric propulsion gives the system a low acoustic and thermal signature. SkyStriker incorporates electro-optical reconnaissance and autonomous target tracking and engagement capabilities.

The system can be launched from several types of platforms, including ground vehicles, containers and aircraft. Diehl also identifies integration with the EuroPULS rocket artillery system as a potential application, including for the German and other European armed forces.

The cooperation between Diehl Defence and Elbit Systems includes plans to establish production capacity for SkyStriker in Germany if there is a corresponding requirement. Under the agreement, Elbit Systems is responsible for strategic market development, while Diehl Defence is to undertake manufacturing, assembly, integration and qualification in Germany.