The American startup company XDOWN recently announced details of a state-of-the-art, throwable tactical drone designed for quick and stealthy use.
Known as the P.S. Killer (PSK), the unmanned aerial system (UAS) bears a strong resemblance to an NFL football, which is no mistake. According to XDOWN, the shape of the 3.7-pound PSK allows users to hand-launch the kamikaze drone like a quarterback from practically any location and gives the weapon heightened accuracy.
XDOWN describes the PSK’s deployment process as simple: “Grab it – Switch it ON – Throw it.” The drone launches into operation within two seconds, much like a quarterback throwing a football.
The kamikaze drone has a 40+ miles range and can reach 135 knots speed.
In 1973, the US Army experimented with anti-tank grenades housed in Nerf footballs, leveraging soldiers’ familiarity with throwing footballs.
Nerf Football Grenade
XDOWN developed the PSK to enhance special operations forces’ ability to conduct high-value target (HVT) missions. The drone’s compact size, rapid deployment, and advanced swarm capabilities integrate seamlessly into mission planning, providing operatives with a tactical advantage in dynamic environments.
For counterterrorism operations, the PSK offers precision strike capabilities, reducing collateral damage in urban environments. Its ability to neutralize threats quickly while minimizing risks to civilians and infrastructure makes it a viable alternative to conventional strike methods.
Why It Matters
Drones are becoming increasingly more important in military arsenals, and they are used extensively as weapons and for reconnaissance missions.
XDOWN, whose team is made up of military veterans, reported that the PSK is more cost-efficient than many drones, and it can be easily maintained and upgraded.
What To Know
The PSK’s design allows it be utilized for a diverse range of tasks aside from simply engaging in electronic warfare, and the drone can conduct surveillance and reconnaissance operations thanks to thermal imaging.
Simply replacing the warhead container on the drone can allow the drone to transport food and medical kits to remote locations, conflict areas or disaster zones.
“This exceptional adaptability solidifies the PSK as a crucial asset for military operations, ready to handle any mission with confidence and efficiency,” XDOWN said in a press release.
Other highlights of the PSK include the ability to take out multiple aerial light threats with a single launch, real-time data exchange with command control and systems designed to enhance situational awareness and coordination.
“By complying with National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) regulations, it showcases exceptional reliability and a steadfast commitment to upholding high defense standards,” XDOWN said.
Sources: Defence Blog; Newsweek; Website