The Pentagon has unveiled a new attack drone — the Phoenix Ghost — that is being sent to Ukraine as part of the US’ latest $800 million security assistance package to Kyiv.
The US’ assistance package largely comprises the usual suspects, including howitzers, Stinger and Javelin missiles, spare parts, and tactical field equipment, and the relatively unknown Phoenix Ghost drone popped up as a surprise addition to the list.
“This is a drone that had been in development before the invasion, clearly. The air force was working on this before. In discussions with the Ukrainians about their requirements, we realised that this would suit their needs, particularly in eastern Ukraine [Donbas],” Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said during a briefing Thursday.
However, a senior defence official had reportedly said the Phoenix Ghost drones were
“rapidly developed by the Air Force, in response, specifically, to Ukrainian requirements”. There are also reports suggesting that modifications to the original design of Aerovironment Switchblades, keeping in mind the needs of Ukrainian forces, were what led to the creation of the Phoenix Ghost drones.
Not much is known about the Phoenix Ghost, which is a type of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by the United States Air Force. It is now being produced by California-based defence company AEVEX Aerospace.
Designed as a “one-way” system, it can be used to carry out tactical strikes. This means that the drone self-destructs after having attacked its target.
The Phoenix Ghost drone is equipped with infrared sensors, allowing it to operate during night-time with great ease.