Ukrainian defence technology company Phantom Defense has announced the completion of its acquisition of the developer of Karakurt net launchers. The transaction involves the full acquisition of the business and its team.
The Karakurt net deployment system enables the physical interception of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) without kinetic impact. The device deploys a net over the target, entangling its rotors and preventing further flight. Enemy drones can be brought down in a condition suitable for examination or potential reuse in combat operations by Ukraine’s defence forces.
The systems are adapted for different carrier platforms and tactical scenarios. For DJI Mavic, Matrice and Autel platforms (M3, M4, A4 variants), the system deploys a net vertically from above. For FPV drones and specialised platforms, the system uses forward net deployment with a target retention mechanism to intercept moving targets at high speed.
Phantom Defense says military units have deployed more than 50,000 Karakurt kits over the past six months. To collect operational data and further improve the technology, the company has introduced a programme offering free replacement of consumables to units that submit video evidence of successful enemy UAS interceptions. The programme has already recorded more than 5,000 video-confirmed interceptions.
Building on the acquisition, Phantom Defense is introducing MANGAL, a close-range UAS net interception system integrated into its counter-UAS ecosystem. It is designed to provide point-defence air protection for military vehicles, stationary positions and uncrewed ground vehicles against hostile drones.
MANGAL combines artificial intelligence with daylight and thermal imaging cameras to detect aerial threats and identify targets. Once activated, the system launches a net that physically entangles the drone and prevents it from continuing its flight.
The modular system is equipped with six net launchers and has an effective engagement range of 5 to 15 metres. A built-in battery provides 8 hours or more of autonomous operation. MANGAL can also be powered by an additional battery module or a combat vehicle’s onboard electrical system.
For more information
The September issue of the 2026 Unmanned Airspace Global Counter-UAS Systems Directory is now available. The guide is the world’s only comprehensive, continually updated directory of global C-UAS companies and systems. It itemises over 1,000 C-UAS products and services with performance details, company sales and partnerships arrangements. It is updated every month and broken down into niche sub-sectors (net-capture, missiles, intercept drones, detectors etc) to give C-UAS procurement and industry personnel a unique perspective of global C-UAS technical capabilities and market positions. It is available in word, PDF and excel formats and Unmanned Airspace readers are eligible for a range of discounts. For more information about the Directory please contact the editor Philip Butterworth-Hayes at philip@unmannedairspace.info.