ZenaTech Inc. (NASDAQ:ZENA) said it is developing a new autonomous interceptor drone through its ZenaDrone subsidiary, aiming for a selling price below $5,000 for the system.
The drone, called the ZenaDrone Interceptor P-1, is designed as a single-use autonomous aircraft capable of intercepting hostile drones midair. The vertical takeoff and landing system is intended to physically disable or collide with enemy drones as part of broader counter-unmanned aircraft defense solutions.
“We are engineering the Interceptor P-1 with a clear goal: maximize performance while minimizing cost,” said Shaun Passley, ZenaTech CEO. “The Interceptor P-1 is a critical piece of ZenaDrone’s integrated defense ecosystem, designed to work seamlessly with our interceptor platforms and marine launch station.”
According to the company, the system is meant to address the growing imbalance in modern conflict environments, where low-cost commercial or military drones are increasingly deployed while traditional interception technologies are significantly more expensive.
The Interceptor P-1 will support multiple launch configurations, including deployment from ground installations, vehicles and maritime platforms through the company’s IQ Glider marine drone system. ZenaTech said the drone is designed to operate across different environments while complementing existing air defense infrastructure.
The company expects to complete the first prototype within the next several months and plans to provide updates as development progresses, including regulatory approvals and potential engagement with defense agencies.
ZenaTech cited data from Markets and Markets indicating the global counter-drone defense market is expanding at an annual rate above 25% and could surpass $10 billion by 2030. Management believes the Interceptor P-1 could position the company to pursue procurement opportunities with allied governments, NATO members and defense buyers in the Gulf Cooperation Council.