Granta Autonomy, a Lithuanian defense tech startup, has introduced the X-WING—a vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) loitering munition that blends fixed-wing endurance with multirotor agility. Designed to address the operational gaps between consumer-grade FPV drones and larger tactical UAVs, the X-WING is tailored for modern dispersed operations where mobility, survivability, and autonomy are critical.
Design Philosophy: Bridging FPV Agility and Tactical Endurance
The X-WING is conceived as a hybrid solution to fill capability gaps exposed by recent conflicts—most notably in Ukraine—where low-cost FPV drones have proven effective but limited by range, payload flexibility, and survivability. According to Granta Autonomy’s product literature and interviews given during Baltic MilTech expos in late 2024 and early 2025, the X-WING offers a modular airframe capable of both vertical lift via quadrotors and efficient cruise via fixed wings.
This dual-mode configuration enables rapid deployment from confined areas—such as forests or urban ruins—without launch rails or runways. Once airborne, it transitions to efficient horizontal flight using its pusher propeller. The design supports both reconnaissance (ISR) payloads and kinetic warheads for strike missions. Its VTOL capability also enhances recovery options in austere terrain or when GPS-denied conditions preclude return-to-base navigation.
Specifications and Capabilities
While full technical specifications remain partially undisclosed due to ongoing development cycles as of Q2 2025, available data indicates:
- Wingspan: ~1.6 meters
- MTOW: Estimated at under 10 kg
- Endurance: Up to 45 minutes in cruise mode
- Range: Operational radius of ~15–20 km (line-of-sight)
- Payload Options: EO/IR camera pod; modular warhead (HE-FRAG or shaped charge)
- Navigation: GNSS + inertial backup; optional visual odometry module under development
- Datalink: Encrypted C2 link with fallback autonomous mission execution
The system is reportedly designed with NATO STANAG interoperability in mind—including digital video output standards—and can integrate into existing tactical C2 systems used by Baltic forces.
Tactical Use Cases: ISR-to-Strike Flexibility
The X-WING is positioned as a multi-role asset for platoon- to company-level units requiring organic ISR-strike capabilities without reliance on higher-echelon assets. Its primary mission sets include:
- Tactical reconnaissance: Over-the-hill surveillance or target confirmation beyond line-of-sight
- Kinetic strike: Precision attack on soft-skinned vehicles or dug-in infantry positions using onboard warhead
- BDA (Battle Damage Assessment): Post-strike visual confirmation of effects on target
- Cued engagement: Working in tandem with other sensors or dismounted teams for time-sensitive targeting
This flexibility mirrors trends seen across NATO-aligned forces seeking scalable loitering munitions that can be deployed at lower echelons without complex logistics chains. The platform’s autonomous features—including waypoint navigation and potential AI-assisted target recognition—are being refined to reduce operator burden under electronic warfare conditions.
Lithuanian Defense Context and Export Potential
Lithuania has invested heavily in asymmetric defense capabilities since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in early 2022. While state-owned entities like Lietuvos Ginkluotės Agentūra focus on major procurement programs (e.g., NASAMS air defense), startups like Granta Autonomy are supported through innovation grants aimed at rapidly fieldable systems.
The X-WING has reportedly undergone initial testing with Lithuanian Land Forces units as part of small-unit experimentation programs focused on dispersed operations doctrine. While no formal procurement contract has been announced as of May 2025, sources suggest interest from Baltic special operations elements seeking organic ISR-strike tools for cross-border deterrence missions.
The system may also appeal to export customers seeking NATO-compatible loitering munitions that avoid ITAR restrictions common with U.S.-origin systems. Its low logistical footprint makes it suitable for irregular forces or partner militaries operating in GPS-contested environments.
A Growing Segment: Tactical VTOL Loitering Munitions Market
The emergence of platforms like the X-WING reflects broader trends reshaping tactical drone warfare. As seen with Israeli Hero-120 variants or U.S.-developed ALTIUS-600M systems adapted for man-portable use cases, there is growing demand for loiter-capable munitions that combine ease-of-use with precision lethality.
Lithuania’s entry into this space underscores how smaller nations are leveraging commercial UAV advances—particularly in battery tech and lightweight composites—to develop sovereign strike capabilities at scale. The key differentiator will lie not only in hardware but also software robustness against jamming/spoofing threats increasingly prevalent across Eastern European theaters.
Outlook: From Prototype to Fielded Capability?
If successfully transitioned from prototype to production-grade system within the next year, the X-WING could become a cornerstone of Lithuania’s light infantry modernization efforts. Key challenges ahead include scaling manufacturing beyond small-batch quantities while maintaining affordability per unit—likely under €10k depending on payload configuration.
The upcoming Baltic Defense & Security Forum (BDSF) slated for Q3–Q4 of this year may serve as a launchpad for international exposure. Whether Granta Autonomy can secure domestic orders—or attract co-development partners abroad—will determine if this promising concept matures into an operational capability amid Europe’s evolving security landscape.
