Metis launches Skyperion Lightweight as a new mobile C-UAV detect, track and identify capability

UK radio frequency (RF) and drone detection specialist Metis announced on 29 January 2026 the launch of a new, lighter addition to its range of passive counter-uncrewed aerial vehicle (C-UAV) systems.

Skyperion Lightweight has virtually all the same passive C-UAV detect, track and identify (DTI) sensor capability as its operationally proven predecessor Skyperion Rugged, but has been re-engineered into a smaller size, weight and power (SWaP) format optimised for users requiring mobility, rapid deployment and on-the-move operation.

“With the increasing proliferation of rogue drones being used for nefarious means, it is essential that we continue to innovate and develop new products to counter these threats,” Metis CEO Tony Burnell explained in a company press release. “Skyperion Lightweight offers users ultimate flexibility on how it is deployed – not only protecting fixed locations but also providing virtually the same level of protection as Skyperion Rugged in a mobile format, which we know many potential customers are seeking.”

Skyperion products, already at Technical Readiness Level (TRL) 9 and operationally proven with multiple NATO partners, are distinguished by a non-library-based Open ESM waveform analysis. This approach identifies both co-operative and non-co-operative emitters across a wide spectrum of frequencies, providing an agile, comprehensive RF detection capability without reliance on static signal libraries.

“Skyperion is also the ideal choice to be integrated into a wider range of counter-drone capabilities (radar, optics, jamming and defeat) because it has been designed and manufactured to be system agnostic, modular and with an open architecture,” the company stated. “This allows sovereign nations, large primes or system integrators to easily incorporate Metis products with other best-in-class technologies, to deliver world-leading detection, tracking, identification and defeat of rogue drones.”

The Skyperion Rugged system provides the RF DTI capability integrated into the UK Royal Air Force’s Orcus C-UAV system as well as the Leonardo Falcon Shield C-UAV system deployed with NATO allies.