Kratos unveils Thanatos: A stealth drone to bolster F‑15s and F‑16s
Kratos Defense and Security announced the first flight of the Thanatos unmanned aircraft. Representatives did not specify exactly when it took place. However, it is known that over the next 6-12 months, the company plans to further develop the drone. In the future, the machine will provide powerful support for American F-15 and F-16 fighters, making them even more formidable.
The stealth drone developed by Kratos Defense and Security was first unveiled in 2023, although information about it started emerging as early as 2019. Thanatos boasts a modern design with advanced combat and reconnaissance capabilities. The name of the device refers to the Greek god of death, reflecting its potential as an advanced tool in warfare.
Thanatos is to support fighters
Thanatos was designed using stealth technology, making it harder to detect by radar and other detection systems. Its design is characterized by the absence of a traditional tail, which reduces its radar and thermal signature. Additionally, the shape of the wings improves aerodynamics, and the use of composite materials ensures the durability and lightness of the structure. These features aim to limit the visibility of Thanatos on the battlefield.
One of the key advantages of Thanatos is its modularity. Thanks to this feature, the unmanned aircraft can be quickly adapted for various missions. It can be used for reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and even as support for manned fighters, including the F-15, F-16, F-35, and future sixth-generation fighters. Thanatos aligns with the American Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which aims to develop autonomous drones that support piloted units in complex operations.
Steve Fendley, president of Kratos's unmanned systems division, stated that the company is keen on the future development of CCA. Fendley believes that CCA-class drones significantly enhance the combat capability of fifth-generation fighters and increase the survivability of fourth-generation fighters. For example, "collaborative" drones enable the use of electronic warfare capabilities to provide a greater range for fourth-generation fighters, such as the F-15 and F-16.
