Czech Republic Rolls Out Drone With Hardened Satellite Navigation
STORK LR is a long-range unmanned aerial vehicle, featuring anti-jam navigation and two-way encrypted telemetry.
Czech drone developer U&C UAS is positioning its new STORK LR platform for operations where satellite navigation can no longer be taken for granted.
Unveiled during the 2026 World Defense Show in Riyadh, the platform features an anti-electronic warfare suite that autonomously detects GPS (Global Positioning System) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) jamming, helping it maintain positioning in contested environments.
It integrates a hardened satellite navigation receiver designed to resist signal interference, along with two-way encrypted links for telemetry and live video transmission.
With an operational reach of up to 135 kilometers (84 miles), the drone leverages mesh networking, allowing another STORK LR to act as an airborne relay.
According to the company, the architecture expands coverage while mitigating terrain masking and line-of-sight constraints, keeping the system connected even under electronic interference.
STORK LR in Focus
Optimized for endurance, the drone measures 1.48 meters (4.86 feet) in length with a 3.4 meters (11.15 feet) wingspan and has a maximum takeoff weight of 14 kilograms (40 pounds).
Powered by an electric propulsion system, it integrates an advanced autopilot that supports fully autonomous flight and navigation modes, reducing operator workload.
Stork LR can be launched via pneumatic catapult and recovered through a ruggedized belly landing, enabling rapid deployment without the need for prepared runways.
With up to five hours of endurance, the platform can operate at altitudes reaching 4,500 meters (14,760 feet), supporting extended overwatch above ground-based threats.
