AI-powered system fills critical air defense gap, offering rapid deployment against loitering munitions and hostile UAVs
Origin Robotics Launches AI-Driven Interceptor
Riga-based defense startup Origin Robotics has announced the release of BLAZE, an autonomous counter-drone interceptor designed to neutralize fast aerial threats. Developed in response to the growing use of drones in global conflict zones, BLAZE offers a cost-effective option for modern air defense.
“In asymmetric warfare, drones are relatively inexpensive and widely deployed to overwhelm air defences and strike targets both at the frontline and deep behind it, making it challenging and costly to counter,” said Agris Kipurs, CEO and co-founder of Origin Robotics. “We designed BLAZE specifically to address this threat—a fast, intelligent, and cost-effective addition to existing air defence systems.”
With the rise of loitering munitions and commercial drone use in warfare—particularly in Ukraine—demand for agile, scalable, and low-cost defenses has grown. In January 2025, Russia launched over 2,500 drones into Ukrainian territory, an average of 80 per day. Origin Robotics sees BLAZE as a timely response to these evolving threats.
Operator-Supervised Autonomy Balances Speed and Control
BLAZE combines radar detection and AI-powered computer vision to autonomously detect, track, and lock onto airborne targets. While the system handles much of the operation on its own, it still requires operator confirmation before engaging a threat. This reduces the risk of friendly fire and allows for better decision-making in complex environments.
The interceptor carries a high-explosive (HE) fragmentation warhead. Once a target is confirmed, BLAZE can either strike directly or detonate mid-air for wider area coverage. The operator also retains a wave-off option, allowing BLAZE to abort and either return or self-destruct safely.
This hybrid approach of automation with human oversight ensures flexibility in cluttered radar environments and improves safety for allied personnel and civilians.
Designed for Fast Deployment and Tactical Flexibility
Portability and speed are key features of BLAZE. The system is man-portable, and its carry case doubles as both a launch station and charging dock. The first drone can be deployed in under five minutes, with each additional launch taking less than one minute.
A tool-free setup allows teams to be operational within ten minutes, making BLAZE well-suited for fast-moving or high-intensity missions.
BLAZE is designed to be scalable and cost-efficient, allowing militaries to deploy the technology broadly without the expense of missile-based systems.
Backed by Battlefield Experience and European Defense Support
BLAZE builds on Origin Robotics’ earlier success with its BEAK system, already in use by the Latvian and Ukrainian Armed Forces. BEAK’s deployment has earned the company recognition and trust, leading to a research and development contract from the Latvian Ministry of Defence and support from the European Defence Fund.
Origin Robotics was founded in response to the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Its leadership, including Kipurs and co-founder Ilya Nevdah, brings decades of experience from the commercial drone sector into the defense space. The company specializes in turning conventional munitions into smart weapons using AI and advanced software.
With the introduction of BLAZE, Origin Robotics aims to expand its impact on modern defense strategies while maintaining affordability and operational agility.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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