RSI Europe Špokas

RSI Europe Špokas/Shpak
2024
TypeLoitering missile
Place of originLithuania
Service history
In service2024–present
WarsRussian invasion of Ukraine
Production history
ManufacturerRSI Europe
Produced2024–present
Specifications
Mass2 kg (4.4 lb)
Length25 cm (9.8 in)
Operational
range
20 km (12 mi)
Maximum speed150 km/h (93 mph)
Guidance
system
Autonomous; manual
References[1]

RSI Europe Špokas or RSI Europe Shpak is a Lithuanian-developed first-person view (FPV) quadcopter drone designed for military applications, particularly as a loitering munition.

Development

RSI Europe, a Lithuanian company specializing in remotely controlled systems for the defense sector, developed the Špokas in response to the evolving demands of modern warfare.

Naming

The drone is named after the Lithuanian word "špokas," meaning "starling," symbolizing a shared cultural heritage among Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine. The name reflects the historical ties between these nations and their collective defense efforts against eastern aggressors.[2]

Funding

In 2024, the Lithuanian National Development Bank ILTE provided RSI Europe with a €4 million loan to support the development and production of advanced defense technologies, including the Špokas FPV drone.

The funding aims to enhance manufacturing capacity, accelerate delivery to allied forces such as Ukraine, and strengthen Lithuania’s position as a regional hub for defense innovation.[3]

Design

The Špokas is designed for precision strikes on enemy targets, offering military forces a versatile and effective tool for modern combat scenarios.[4]

Deployment

In October 2024, RSI Europe delivered the first batch of Špokas drones to Ukraine under a $4 million contract.

This delivery marked a significant step in enhancing Ukraine's drone capabilities amidst ongoing conflicts. The drones have been integrated into Ukrainian operations, providing advanced strike capabilities against adversary targets.[5]

Additionally, RSI Europe has been training Lithuanian Armed Forces personnel in FPV drone operations since June 2024, ensuring effective utilization of the Špokas in various military applications.[1]

Users

See also

References

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