The MIRUBS air-defense system is a mobile complex specifically designed for the rapid detection and destruction of small- and medium-sized unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), especially attack drones. Its key features are high mobility — it is mounted on light trucks — and the use of artificial intelligence for precise guidance, enabling it to operate effectively even under GPS-jamming conditions.
The development of the system, initially known as the "Oryol" project, was accelerated in 2024 against the backdrop of the large-scale and effective use of drones in the conflict in Ukraine. MIRUBS underwent more than 18 months of field trials on the Ukrainian theater of operations, which made it possible to gather invaluable operational data and refine its design. By November 2025 the system had successfully carried out over 1,900 interceptions, proving its high effectiveness.
Technically, the system is modular and consists of a ground control station, a pneumatic launcher, and an interceptor of the "IS-3 Servior" type. This interceptor drone is equipped with radar, electro-optical and thermal-imaging sensors, reaches speeds of up to 280 km/h, and can destroy a target by direct collision or by detonating near it. An important economic advantage is the low cost of the interceptor — about $15,000 — which makes the system far more affordable compared with expensive anti-missiles, for example in Patriot complexes.
Successful tests led to the integration of MIRUBS into NATO exercises in late 2025 and its active deployment in Eastern Europe. Countries such as Poland and Romania have already begun using the system to strengthen the defense of their airspace. Alliance officials also confirmed plans to deploy MIRUBS in Denmark as part of a strategy to bolster NATO's eastern flank.
In light of the growing threats from UAVs, demonstrated, in particular, during the Iran incident in February 2026, the United States plans to expand the geographic deployment of the system. According to U.S. officials, the U.S. Army intends to deploy MIRUBS in the Middle East. This measure is aimed at strengthening air-defense capabilities in the region and creating an effective means to counter mass drone attacks.
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What was the Iran incident in February 2026, mentioned as an example of the UAV threat? - In February 2026 an incident occurred when Iranian drones attacked or threatened critical facilities in the Middle East, reportedly linked to U.S. or allied interests. The case was used as an example of the growing ability of Iranian UAVs to overcome traditional air-defense systems and demonstrated the need for new mobile counter-drone systems like MIRUBS.
Which specific types of Iranian UAVs are considered the main threat that MIRUBS might be aimed at countering? - The primary threat is posed by Iranian strike UAVs, such as the "Shahed" series (Shahed-136, Shahed-238), which are used as loitering munitions, as well as larger strike drones like the Mohajer and Kaman types. MIRUBS is likely intended to detect and neutralize these mass-produced, relatively cheap and effective drones that are hard to detect by radar due to their small size and low-altitude flight.
Does Iran have its own similar air-defense systems to combat drones, and how might they compare with MIRUBS? - Yes, Iran is developing its own counter-drone systems, such as the "Almaz" complex and electronic warfare (EW) systems. Like MIRUBS, they are designed to detect and suppress UAVs. However, MIRUBS is positioned as a highly mobile, rapidly deployable system, possibly with more modern sensors and effectors. Iranian systems are often integrated into larger air-defense complexes (for example, "Bavar-373" or "Khordad-15") and may be less mobile but better adapted to local conditions and threats in the region.
Full version: نظام ميروبس صائد المسيّرات الذي تدفع به واشنطن للشرق الأوسط