Greek Military’s New Anti-Tank Drone Revolutionizes Battlefield Operations

In a significant advancement for drone warfare, Greek defense company Altus LSA has unveiled the ATLAS 8H “Kerveros,” a sophisticated heavy-lift octocopter specifically designed for anti-tank missions. This innovative platform, equipped with French-made Akeron MP missiles, marks Greece’s first entry into the anti-tank drone sector, according to Army Recognition.

Advanced Design and Capabilities

The Kerveros features eight rotors for enhanced stability and redundancy, setting it apart from traditional quadcopter designs. What makes this platform particularly interesting is its modular architecture, allowing rapid adaptation between combat and logistics missions.

I’ve broken down the two available configurations:

Electric Version:
Max takeoff weight: 265 lbs (120 kg)
Payload capacity: 110 lbs (50 kg)
Range: 18.6 miles (30 km)
Flight time: 25 minutes
Max altitude: 16,400 feet
Hybrid Version:
Max takeoff weight: 330 lbs (150 kg)
Payload capacity: 110 lbs (50 kg)
Range: 62 miles (100 km)
Flight time: 3-4 hours

Game-Changing Combat Integration

The integration of MBDA’s Akeron MP missile system transforms this platform from a logistics workhorse into a lethal anti-armor weapon. The missile system offers both “fire-and-forget” and “man-in-the-loop” capabilities, making it adaptable for autonomous or operator-guided missions.

“This new capability enhances the Greek armed forces’ firepower and aligns with a global shift toward using drones to conduct high-risk missions,” states the report.

Advanced Security Features

The Kerveros comes equipped with robust security measures, operating on a 2.4 GHz communication link with AES 128 and 256 encryption. This ensures secure data transmission during critical operations, whether they’re combat or logistics missions.

Versatility in Modern Warfare

One of the most compelling aspects of the Kerveros is its ability to switch between combat and logistical roles. This adaptability makes it an invaluable asset for modern military operations, where flexibility and rapid response capabilities are crucial. The platform offers a significant tactical advantage in asymmetric warfare scenarios, providing commanders with a versatile tool for both strike missions and battlefield resupply.

DroneXL’s Take

This development represents a significant evolution in drone technology, particularly in the military sector. The Kerveros showcases how modern drones are becoming increasingly versatile, capable of handling both combat and support roles. This type of dual-use capability is something we’ve been tracking closely in our defense coverage, as it represents a cost-effective solution for military forces looking to maximize their unmanned systems’ effectiveness.

What are your thoughts on this dual-role military drone platform? Share your perspective in the comments section below.