At DSEI 2025, the Czech-Ukrainian joint venture UAC showcased its new MACE loitering munition, an advanced unmanned aerial system designed for both reconnaissance and precision strike operations.
The MACE measures 1.56 meters in length with a 1.92-meter wingspan and is delivered in a compact transport case. Weighing approximately 11.5 kg at takeoff, it carries a 2.5 kg combined cumulative and fragmentation warhead, making it effective against both armored targets and critical infrastructure.
Performance and Capabilities
MACE offers up to 75 minutes of flight endurance and cruises between 20–25 m/s. It is engineered for operations in harsh climates, functioning between –30°C and +50°C and withstanding wind speeds of up to 20 m/s. Launch is conducted via a pneumatic catapult, and the electric motor is managed by a fully automated autopilot with navigation modes.
Targeting can be performed by an operator using computer vision-assisted automatic tracking or via pre-programmed coordinates. Detonation is triggered by an autonomous electro-detonator. Its warhead can penetrate 200 mm of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA) and produce thermobaric effects across 40 m².
Electronic Warfare Resilience
To survive in contested airspace, MACE integrates GPS/GLONASS anti-jamming protection and spoofing countermeasures. When electronic interference is detected, the system automatically switches to inertial navigation with error correction. Communications are encrypted with AES-128/256 protocols, ensuring secure control and telemetry.
MACE offers a 35 km line-of-sight transmission range, extendable to 100 km using MESH networking, allowing multiple drones to coordinate missions in swarm formations.
Operational Role
Designed for day and night operations, MACE can conduct reconnaissance, vehicle and infrastructure destruction, and networked swarm attacks. Its loitering capability allows operators to wait for the right moment to strike and cooperate with other UAVs in real time.
The unveiling of MACE reflects the growing global demand for affordable, survivable, and flexible loitering munitions. The system represents Central and Eastern Europe’s increasing role in developing next-generation battlefield technologies and underlines UAC’s ambitions to secure a foothold in the competitive international drone market.
