Stratos Ravenite
| Ravenite | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Type | Loitering munition |
| Service history | |
| In service | 2012-Present |
| Used by |  Belfrassee operators |
| Production history | |
| Manufacturer | Stratos AeroTech |
| Specifications | |
Launch platform | Portable tube; multipack; assorted vehicles |
The Ravenite Loitering Munition System, commonly known simply as the Ravenite, is a family of advanced loitering attack munitions designed by Stratos AeroTech to provide precision-strike capabilities across a range of operational scenarios. Developed by the Federation, the Ravenite system is highly versatile, with configurations ranging from man-portable to vehicle- and ship-launched variants. First introduced in 2012, the system has become an integral part of the Federation’s tactical and strategic arsenal.
The Ravenite was conceived to address the growing need for a precision-guided munition capable of extended loitering times and flexible deployment. Unlike conventional munitions, the Ravenite allows operators to reconnoiter targets and engage them with high accuracy, minimizing collateral damage. Its modular design ensures compatibility with various launch platforms, including infantry units, armored vehicles, and naval vessels.
Key to the system’s effectiveness is its ability to integrate real-time intelligence and targeting capabilities. Equipped with advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) sensors, the Ravenite provides operators with high-resolution imagery and precise target acquisition. These features enable dynamic mission profiles, including reconnaissance, target marking, and precision strikes.
The introduction of the Ravenite family marked a significant advancement in loitering munition technology. Its ability to remain airborne for extended periods while maintaining a low acoustic and visual signature makes it ideal for operations in contested environments. The system’s autonomous flight capabilities further enhance its effectiveness, allowing it to operate in GPS-denied or electronically contested battlefields.
Each variant within the Ravenite family is tailored to specific mission requirements. The man-portable models are designed for rapid deployment by infantry units, while the larger vehicle- and ship-launched variants provide extended range and payload capacity. This scalability ensures that the Ravenite can meet the diverse needs of modern military operations.
The Ravenite’s operational flexibility is complemented by its ease of use. The system features an intuitive interface that enables operators to plan and execute missions with minimal training. Automated flight controls and real-time data links simplify mission management, reducing operator workload and ensuring rapid responsiveness.
Since its introduction, the Ravenite system has been continually upgraded to incorporate the latest advancements in loitering munition technology. These upgrades include improved sensor packages, extended loitering times, and enhanced warhead options. The system’s modular architecture ensures that these improvements can be retrofitted across the family, maintaining interoperability and reducing lifecycle costs.
Design and development
The Ravenite Loitering Munition System is designed to provide a balance of portability, precision, and endurance. Its modular construction enables scalability across the family, ensuring that each variant meets the specific requirements of its intended role. The system comprises a loitering airframe, integrated sensors, and a warhead, all optimized for operational flexibility and reliability.
The airframe of the Ravenite is constructed from lightweight, durable composite materials, ensuring a low radar and thermal signature. Its aerodynamic design maximizes loitering time while maintaining maneuverability, allowing it to operate effectively in diverse environments. The airframe also features collapsible wings on some variants, facilitating compact storage and rapid deployment.
Each Ravenite munition is equipped with a sophisticated guidance system that combines GPS-aided inertial navigation with electro-optical and infrared sensors. This multi-mode guidance ensures high accuracy in target acquisition and engagement, even in GPS-denied environments. The sensors provide operators with real-time intelligence, enabling dynamic mission adjustments and precise target selection.
The propulsion system varies across the family, ranging from electric motors for smaller, man-portable variants to advanced fuel-based engines for larger models. These propulsion systems are designed to provide extended loitering times while maintaining a low acoustic profile, enhancing the munition’s stealth capabilities.
The warhead options for the Ravenite are modular, allowing customization based on mission requirements. Standard configurations include high-explosive warheads for anti-personnel and anti-vehicle missions, as well as shaped charges for engaging armored targets. Some variants also feature non-lethal payloads, such as electronic warfare or sensor packages, for reconnaissance and disruption missions.
Launch systems for the Ravenite are designed for compatibility with various platforms. Man-portable variants are deployed using lightweight tube launchers, while larger models are integrated into vehicle- and ship-mounted launchers. The system’s compact design and automated launch sequence enable rapid deployment in dynamic combat scenarios.
The Ravenite’s control interface is user-friendly, featuring a mission planning suite that allows operators to define waypoints, loitering areas, and engagement criteria. The system’s real-time data link provides continuous feedback on mission status, enabling operators to monitor and adjust the munition’s flight path as needed.
Durability and reliability are central to the Ravenite’s design. Each munition is rigorously tested to ensure performance under extreme environmental conditions, including high humidity, temperature variations, and electronic warfare. These features make the Ravenite a dependable tool for modern military operations.
The modular architecture of the Ravenite family facilitates upgrades and maintenance. Hardware components such as sensors, propulsion systems, and warheads can be replaced or enhanced to meet evolving operational needs. This adaptability ensures that the system remains relevant as new technologies and threats emerge.
Variants of the Ravenite are tailored to specific roles, ranging from tactical strikes to strategic reconnaissance. Each variant shares a common design philosophy, emphasizing portability, precision, and endurance, while incorporating unique features to address its intended mission profile.
Models
Ravenite 30
- Weight: 3 kg (6.6 lb)
- Warhead: 0.5 kg (1.1 lb) high-explosive
- Range: 10 km (5.4 nmi)
- Endurance: 30 minutes
- Guidance: GPS/INS, EO/IR
- Propulsion: Electronic motor
- Launch method: Single/multi-canister
Ravenite 120
- Weight: 12 kg (26 lb)
- Warhead: 4.5 kg (9.9 lb) modular (He or shaped charge)
- Range: 40 km (22 nmi)
- Endurance: 60 minutes
- Guidance: GPS/INS, EO/IR
- Propulsion: Electronic motor
- Launch method: Single/multi-canister
Ravenite 400
- Weight: 40 kg (88 lb)
- Warhead: 10 kg (22 lb) modular (He or shaped charge)
- Range: 60 km (32 nmi)
- Endurance: 2 hours
- Guidance: GPS/INS, EO/IR
- Propulsion: Electronic motor
- Launch method: Rail, Single/multi-canister
Ravenite 900
- Weight: 90 kg (200 lb)
- Warhead: 25 kg (55 lb) modular
- Range: 150 km (81 nmi)
- Endurance: 3 hours
- Propulsion: Fuel-based engine
- Launch method: Rail, Single/multi-canister
Ravenite 1250
- Weight: 125 kg (276 lb)
- Warhead: 50 kg (110 lb) modular
- Range: 200 km (110 nmi)
- Endurance: 6 hours
- Propulsion: Fuel-based engine
- Launch method: Rail, Single/multi-canister