Cobra 600: Jet-Powered Drone Extends IRIS-T Reach

Germany’s Diehl Defence unveils the Cobra 600, a jet-powered drone designed with Polaris Raumflugzeuge to carry an IRIS-T missile as a “missile taxi” that pairs with ground-based air defenses to extend engagement range to about 250 miles, while allowing loitering and runway launches. The system relies on a ground controller and datalink (potentially with SATCOM), uses lock-on-after-launch capabilities, and could be integrated with other defenses, raising questions about autonomy, sensors, and ethical use. First flight tests have occurred, with funding from Diehl and interested nations, reflecting a broader shift toward layered, cost-effective air defense in response to persistent drone threats.