German arms manufacturer Diehl Defence has unveiled the Cobra 600, a new jet-powered interceptor drone that uses the IRIS-T missile to significantly extend the reach of ground-based air defense systems.
Revealed during the ILA Berlin air show, the equipment was developed to act as a kind of “missile taxi,” carrying the weapon hundreds of kilometers before engaging targets identified by integrated air defense networks.
The platform was created in partnership with the German aerospace startup Polaris Raumflugzeuge and features a configuration similar to a flying wing, with the ability to operate with up to four jet engines. Unlike many combat drones, the Cobra 600 has retractable landing gear, allowing reuse after certain missions. In addition, it can take off and land on conventional runways or adapted stretches of road, offering greater operational flexibility.
According to the developers, the drone can carry an IRIS-T missile for around 400 kilometers, considerably expanding the coverage area of ground-based air defense systems. In operation, targets are detected by ground-based radars and sensors, which send information to the drone via data link. Using these coordinates, the Cobra 600 positions itself so the missile can perform the interception, functioning as an advanced launcher capable of remaining on patrol while awaiting aerial threats.
The concept comes amid growing concern over drone and missile attacks seen in recent conflicts, especially in Ukraine and the Middle East. Initial tests of the Cobra 600 have already been successfully carried out using an inert missile, and the project has received investment from at least one interested country. For the German industry, the new solution represents a more economical alternative for expanding air defense, combining the mobility of drones with the proven capability of IRIS-T interceptors.
Sign of the times, as @DiehlDefence showcases its IRIS-T-armed Cobra 600 #drone at @ILA_Berlin #ILA2026. https://t.co/kncOOUZLjO pic.twitter.com/lMt8ec6uBT
— Gareth Jennings (@GarethJennings3) June 10, 2026
Source: The War Zone | Photo: X @GarethJennings3 | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
