Valhalla Turrets and Thales debut new counter‑UAS systems at Eurosatory 2026

Slovenian defence specialist Valhalla Turrets unveiled the Skythunder 300, a remote‑controlled turret designed for counter‑unmanned‑air‑system (C‑UAS) and short‑range air‑defence tasks. The 30 mm Bushmaster cannon with air‑burst capability, a 7.62 mm Gatling gun, and a four‑cell 70 mm laser‑guided rocket launcher are mounted on a tactical chassis shown at the Daimler Truck stand. Integrated sensors include dual electro‑optical sights and three Hensoldt Spexer 2000 AESA radars, providing 360° surveillance and autonomous hunter‑killer engagement. The system is modular, allowing alternative missiles or sensors.

French firm Thales introduced RapidStriker, a vehicle‑borne C‑UAS platform also displayed at Eurosatory. It combines a 360° Robin Radar, multi‑sensor optronic suite, Thales IRIS detection, and an advanced weapon‑management system. RapidStriker can launch 68 mm or 70 mm laser‑guided rockets from a twin‑12‑round launcher, operate a remote‑controlled weapon station, and employ the Eclipse jammer and Toutatis munition. A prototype “saturation” rocket packed with steel balls is under development. Thales plans full system tests by the end of 2026 and production in 2027.