Ukraine unveils P1-Sun drone interceptor at Dubai Airshow

On November 17, Ukrainian defence company SkyFall showcased its new P1-Sun drone interceptor for the first time outside Ukraine at the Dubai Airshow, highlighting the growing role of drone defence in modern militaries.

The P1-Sun is a modular interceptor with a 3D-printed airframe, capable of speeds up to 300 km/h and a maximum altitude of 5,000 meters, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media. 

SkyFall said the drones, designed with frontline troop input, can destroy Russian Geran-2 cruise missiles, as well as helicopters and other aerial threats.

SkyFall, which also displayed its Shrike FPV drones and Vampire bomber drones, produces thousands of drones per month. Its FPV (first-person view) systems transmit live video to operators, allowing precision targeting.

Company representatives said most components—around 85%—are sourced domestically in Ukraine, reducing reliance on Chinese supply chains.

“Gulf armies might turn to Ukraine for loitering munitions/FPVs as they look for cheaper but precise strike options,” said Kelly Grieco, a senior fellow at the Stimson Centre think tank in Washington. She added that such drones could support border defence, pipeline protection, and base security.

Official delegations from the United States, Latvia, Estonia and the United Arab Emirates visited SkyFall’s display, according to a company representative who requested anonymity due to security concerns.

Ukrainian law prohibits the sale of systems that could be used directly in the conflict, though foreign governments can fund production for Ukraine’s military.

SkyFall’s drones are battle-tested, with Ukraine reportedly deploying up to 9,000 military drones daily. Western countries, including the U.S. and U.K., have helped establish joint production programs to supply Kyiv’s forces.

At Dubai, SkyFall presented full-scale models of its drones alongside videos showing Shrikes and Vampires destroying Russian vehicles and P1-Suns intercepting Geran-2 missiles. Dozens of other companies at the show promoted drones for tasks ranging from disaster mapping to combat operations.

Meanwhile, Russia’s Rostec demonstrated its Ka-52 helicopter and Su-57 fighter at separate flight displays outside the main exhibition floor.

By Aghakazim Guliyev