Aevex Phoenix Ghost

History

Expendable loitering munitions are unmanned aerial systems (UAS) used in modern warfare. These UASs are designed to locate and engage enemy targets, providing tactical-level attack capabilities with relatively low risk. They are single-use drones that act as kamikaze solutions on the battlefield.

Countries like the US, Israel, and Ukraine actively use these UASs to counter their adversaries. The US Air Force is leading a project called "Phoenix Ghost," which involves a specific type of loitering munition built for Ukraine. The project aims to provide Ukraine with at least 121 low-cost unmanned attack aircraft to support their defense efforts against Russia.

The UASs give Ukraine a significant advantage by operating quietly and providing real-time information to ground operators. They can target various enemy assets such as armored vehicles, command centers, artillery positions, and troop encampments.

The Phoenix Ghost is similar in function to AeroVironment's "Switchblade" loitering ammunition. It is a portable, tube-launched, disposable UAV with a two-bladed propeller configuration. It weighs only 4 pounds and has spring-loaded wings that deploy after launch.

The Phoenix Wraith, part of the same project, has vertical take-off capability, making it versatile and deployable from various locations. It has a mission stamina window of around 6 hours, surpassing the 40-minute linger time of the rival Switchblade. The UAS is equipped with integrated optics for day and night operations, including infrared capabilities.

The use of loitering munitions reflects Ukraine's willingness to experiment and adapt to the evolving battlefield. These systems offer additional tools to frontline operators, challenging traditional concepts dominated by air superiority, electronic warfare, heavily armored tanks, and long-range artillery.

Aevex Phoenix Ghost Specs

Base

Year in Service: 2022

Origins: United States

Status: Active.

Crew: 0

Production: 500

Manufacturer: Aevex Aerospace - USA

Operator: Ukraine (announced)

Roles

Ground attack (bombing, strafing)

The ability to conduct air strikes against ground targets using (but not limited to) artillery, bombs, rockets, rockets, etc.

Disable support (CAS)

Designed to operate near active ground elements with a wide range of air-to-surface weapon and ammunition options.

Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (ISR), reconnaissance

Monitor ground targets/target areas to assess surrounding threat levels, enemy strength, or enemy movement.

Special Forces

Serve special forces/special operations forces and missions.

Unmanned

Aircraft designed (or later developed) have inherent unmanned capabilities and can fill a variety of battlefield roles.

Note features

Pusher bracket

The design features a rearward push rod arrangement in contrast to the more traditional pull rod arrangement.

Sturdy aircraft frame

The inherent ability of the airframe to take significant damage.

Extended Range Performance

Ability to travel long distances using on-board fuel supplies.

Unmanned operation

The design features the ability to fly without a pilot, with actions controlled by onboard programming and/or ground operators.

Camera equipment

Payload supports photographic devices that provide still and/or live image/video results.

Performance

Installed: 1 x Propulsion motor of unknown type, make and model.

ARMOR

Shock explosion, consumable payload.