Ukrainian nonprofit drone manufacturer Wild Hornets has introduced the STING drone, a new high-speed first-person-view (FPV) interceptor designed to track and neutralize Russian Shahed-136 kamikaze drones. Recent test footage released by the company shows the STING reaching speeds exceeding 127 mph (204 km/h) at an altitude of 1,400 feet (426 meters), demonstrating its capability to engage aerial threats at unprecedented speeds.
Successful Testing of the New Modification of the Fastest Interceptor – STING 🐝
The new versions of our fastest drones can now fly twice as long while maintaining their speed.
We won’t reveal the technical specifications, but there are hints in the video: pay attention to the… pic.twitter.com/eswRAVkSmw
— Wild Hornets (@wilendhornets) February 6, 2025
Unlike traditional air defense systems, the STING is operated by a ground-based pilot using virtual reality (VR) goggles, providing real-time maneuverability. Developers claim the drone can fly at altitudes approaching 10,000 feet and sustain speeds over 100 mph (160 km/h), making it well-suited to intercept low-flying, slow-moving Shahed drones.
One of its key advantages is cost-effectiveness. According to Wild Hornets, each STING drone costs a fraction of a Shahed-136, allowing Ukraine to preserve expensive air defense munitions while countering large-scale drone attacks. Since the start of 2024, Russia has launched more than 6,200 Shahed-type drones against Ukraine, often targeting energy facilities.
The STING is part of Ukraine’s broader push to scale up its drone warfare capabilities. In September, the country established the Unmanned Systems Forces, a dedicated military branch focused on developing and deploying UAVs. Kyiv has set an ambitious goal of producing one million drones in 2025, supplementing the thousands pledged by international allies.
Spectacular footage of a russian Lancet being destroyed by a Wild Hornets drone 🐝💥
The warriors of the 14th Regiment of Unmanned Systems Forces shot down a russian Lancet kamikaze drone. pic.twitter.com/nUSG55c4F5
— Wild Hornets (@wilendhornets) January 7, 2025
Wild Hornets has remained tight-lipped about the STING’s full technical specifications, encouraging defense analysts to analyze test footage for clues.
