At LandEuro 2025, Venator Technologies unveiled its cutting-edge interceptor drone, AngryCat, aimed at reinforcing Ukraine’s aerial defense against the growing menace of Russian UAVs. Designed for speed, agility, and rapid response, the AngryCat is purpose-built to neutralize hostile drones in real time — a critical need in today’s evolving combat environment.
The AngryCat cruises at 250 km/h and operates at altitudes reaching 4,500 meters, with a 15-minute flight time that gives it an effective range of 30 kilometers. Weighing in at 12 kg, and capable of carrying a 1 kg payload, the drone is launched via pneumatic catapult and can be airborne in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for urgent interception missions. Its day-night operability and fully autonomous functions minimize human involvement, boosting efficiency in fast-paced conflict zones.
Founded in 2022 and based in Kyiv, Venator Technologies specializes in both off-the-shelf and custom unmanned aerial solutions. As a subsidiary of Octava Capital, led by prominent Ukrainian defense entrepreneur Oleksandr Kardakov, the company also produces systems like the FlyCat loitering munition. Since its inception, Venator has contributed significantly to Ukraine’s UAS development, earning recognition on international stages.
Interceptor drones like the AngryCat have gained immense relevance since the start of the 2022 war. The mass deployment of low-cost UAVs for reconnaissance and attacks has exposed gaps in traditional air defense, especially when costly missile systems are used against budget-friendly drones. AngryCat fills this gap by offering a low-cost, high-speed interception solution, effectively redefining how aerial threats are countered.
While the AngryCat enhances Ukraine’s short-range drone defense, limitations remain. These include range constraints, altitude ceilings, and susceptibility to electronic jamming — common issues in modern drone warfare. Still, when used alongside missile systems and anti-aircraft artillery, drones like AngryCat become essential parts of a layered air defense architecture.
Ukraine’s increasing reliance on interceptors, especially within the framework of its “Clear Sky” initiative, showcases the country’s rapid drone innovation. This initiative has spurred mass production of small, agile interceptor drones to combat threats like Iranian-made Shahed drones. With ongoing demand, interceptor drones are evolving quickly — becoming faster, more autonomous, and more precise — ensuring they remain a cornerstone of future air defense strategies.
