Elbit Systems has unveiled SATURN, a next-generation counter-drone system designed to address the rapidly evolving threat posed by unmanned aerial systems on modern battlefields. Developed by the Israeli defense firm, SATURN delivers multi-layered, multi-sensor protection capable of detecting, tracking, and neutralizing hostile drones across a full 360-degree coverage area.

The system integrates radar and electro-optical sensors for long-range threat identification, allowing operators to detect drones early across diverse and challenging environments. Once a threat is confirmed, SATURN employs both soft-kill and hard-kill capabilities. Electronic jamming disrupts hostile drone communications and navigation, while kinetic or directed effectors provide physical neutralization when required. This layered approach ensures flexibility against a wide range of drone types and attack profiles.

Elbit demonstrated SATURN’s capabilities in a promotional video showing real-time detection, automated tracking, and coordinated responses against aerial threats in varied terrain. The system reflects lessons learned from recent conflicts, where adversaries such as Hezbollah and Hamas have increasingly relied on drones for surveillance, targeting, and attack missions.

SATURN builds upon Elbit’s earlier counter-UAS platforms, including ReDrone and Red Sky 2, incorporating expanded sensor fusion and improved response speed. Its development comes amid a global surge in drone usage by both state and non-state actors, making counter-drone defenses a critical priority for military forces and strategic infrastructure worldwide.

The system’s relevance has already been reflected in international demand. In January 2025, Elbit secured a $60 million contract to supply related counter-drone technology to a NATO ally, underscoring the growing recognition of Israel’s expertise in this domain. As unmanned threats continue to proliferate, SATURN positions Elbit Systems at the forefront of modern air defense solutions, combining precision, adaptability, and battlefield-proven innovation.