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Introduction

Loitering munitions—often referred to as “kamikaze drones” or “suicide drones”—are weapon systems that combine characteristics of both unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and guided munitions. They are launched to loiter (remain airborne and surveil) over a target area, identify or wait for a target of opportunity, then strike and detonate on impact. Their design emphasizes rapid deployment, stand-off engagement, and reduced risk to the operator compared with manned aircraft or traditional strike forces.

High-level description of how they operate

• Launch: From a ground vehicle, ship, aircraft, or fixed launcher.

• Loitering phase: The munition cruises and surveys an assigned area, using onboard sensors or operator guidance.

• Targeting/Decision: It may autonomously identify targets or relay sensor data to a human operator for engagement decisions.

• Terminal attack: Once the target is confirmed, the platform dives into the target and detonates its warhead.

Principal types and capabilities (high level)

• Short-range tactical loitering munitions: Small, portable systems for infantry or small-unit use; useful against vehicles, light fortifications, or personnel.

• Medium-range battlefield loiterers: Larger, vehicle- or air-launched systems with extended endurance, better sensors, and larger warheads for armored targets or infrastructure.

• Long-range/strategic loiterers: High-end systems with long endurance, advanced sensors, and precision navigation for deep-strike missions.

• Swarm-capable variants: Coordinated groups of loitering munitions designed to overwhelm defenses or perform distributed sensing and strike missions.