ARQUIMEA unveils at Eurosatory its new multi-layer Air Defense C-UAS System based on intelligent interceptors

Madrid, June 15, 2026. ARQUIMEA, a European technology company specialized in autonomous loitering systems for defense and security, is unveiling at Eurosatory 2026 a new autonomous air defense capability designed to address one of the major threats in today’s operational environments: the proliferation of drones and unmanned system swarms.

The company is showcasing a Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) based on a multi-layer air defense architecture that combines detection, identification, tracking, and interception through intelligent autonomous interceptors capable of engaging a wide range of aerial threats.

The system consists of a multi-launcher for autonomous effectors, enabling the response to be tailored to the type of threat and mission profile. This provides a flexible, scalable, and highly cost-effective solution for protecting deployed forces, critical infrastructure, and strategic assets. The system continuously scans, detects, identifies, engages, and reassesses threats. Once a threat has been detected and classified by the surveillance system, the operator selects the most appropriate interceptor and authorizes launch. The intelligent loitering munition then initiates the interception mission within seconds. Advanced artificial intelligence algorithms enable autonomous tracking and interception with maximum precision.

Layered Counter-Swarm Air Defense

ARQUIMEA’s solution enables the creation of a multi-layer air defense system through the combination of different autonomous interceptors optimized for various ranges, speeds, and threat profiles.

Among them is the Q-SLAM-40, designed to intercept medium-range threats and extend the protection perimeter of deployed forces up to 40 kilometers. This first layer will be complemented by the Q-SLAM-80i, a high-speed interceptor capable of reaching speeds of up to 250 km/h within an operational radius of up to 25 km. Furthermore, the system also incorporates the Q-SLAM-5i, a high-precision interceptor capable of reaching speeds exceeding 350 km/h while carrying a payload of up to 0.4 kilograms. The third layer of defense is provided by the Q-FOX, an ultra-high-speed interceptor capable of exceeding 600 km/h and equipped with a 0.5-kilogram payload to neutralize highly dynamic or rapidly emerging threats.

The combination of these systems enables effective engagement across a broad spectrum of aerial threats, ranging from mini-UAVs and tactical drones to more complex systems, creating a layered defense architecture that optimizes resource allocation and maximizes the probability of neutralization.

The interceptors can operate in a coordinated and collaborative manner, including swarm capabilities and integration into advanced cloud combat architectures. This enables the simultaneous management of multiple threats and the real-time adaptation of responses in highly dynamic and saturated environments. Developed around a modular multi-launcher architecture, the system can be easily integrated into all types of platforms.

Industrial Production Capacity to Meet New Defense Demand

ARQUIMEA’s family of autonomous systems is already in service with more than five armed forces and defense organizations, reinforcing the company’s position as one of Europe’s leading developers of intelligent autonomous systems.

To meet growing international demand, ARQUIMEA has recently strengthened its industrial capabilities through the commissioning of new facilities spanning more than 12,000 square meters, supported by an investment exceeding €10 million.

These facilities enable highly industrialized manufacturing of autonomous systems and provide production capacities of up to 1,000 drones per month, ensuring the scalability required to support current and future defense programs.

The company is also exhibiting the latest evolution of the Q-SLAM-100, its long-range intelligent loitering system, which incorporates new enhancements aimed at increasing operational capabilities, mission effectiveness, and performance in complex and highly contested environments.

Visitors can discover these capabilities at the Spain Pavilion, Hall 6 – Stand 209.

photo courtesy ARQUIMEA