Czech Firm U&C Develops MACE Loitering Munition Using Russian Lancet Design.

Czech defense company U&C has introduced MACE, a new mid-range loitering munition, at the World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia. Designed with lessons from Ukraine and the combat use of Russian Lancet drones, the system aims to give ground forces a resilient precision strike capability in contested environments.

At the World Defense Show 2026 in Saudi Arabia, Czech defense firm U&C presented its MACE loitering munition, a system shaped by observations from recent high-intensity conflicts. Company representatives describe MACE as a response to the widespread battlefield use of Russian Lancet drones, focusing on a mobile, mid-range precision weapon capable of operating under electronic warfare pressure, degraded GPS conditions, and dense air defense coverage.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Czech-made MACE loitering munition developed by U&C is displayed at WDS 2026, highlighting its X-wing airframe, rotating tail stabilizers, and modular strike configuration designed for precision attacks in high-intensity combat environments. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The MACE is a single-use, real-time operated loitering munition UAV intended to destroy enemy infrastructure, armored vehicles, fortified positions, ammunition storage sites, and other high-value military assets. Company engineers describe the system as combat-proven, with internal data indicating a strike accuracy rate of approximately 95% during operations in high-intensity conflict zones. While U&C has not publicly disclosed the theaters in which MACE has been employed, sources familiar with the program say the design philosophy was directly shaped by observing the operational strengths and vulnerabilities of loitering munitions currently used on the modern battlefield.

The airframe features an X-wing aerodynamic configuration with fully rotating tail stabilizers, enabling high maneuverability during the terminal phase of attack. This configuration enables controlled dive angles between 45 and 60 degrees, optimizing impact angle for improved armor penetration while maintaining stable guidance at high speeds. The result is a munition capable of engaging both static and moving targets with the precision previously associated with more complex and costly systems.

U&C offers MACE with several interchangeable warhead options to match mission requirements. The combined warhead integrates cumulative, impact, and thermobaric effects, making it suitable for hardened positions and armored vehicles. A cumulative-fragmentation variant is also available, designed to penetrate light armor while generating lethal fragmentation against exposed personnel. Detonation is managed by an autonomous control unit equipped with an electro-detonator, providing layered safety mechanisms during handling, launch, and flight.

One of the defining features of the MACE system is its network-centric operational concept. Using MESH network technology, multiple MACE UAVs can be controlled simultaneously from a single ground control station. Signal relay can be extended through the STORK LR ISR UAV, allowing operators to push beyond line-of-sight limitations and coordinate complex multi-drone strike missions. This architecture significantly increases operational range and enables cooperative engagement tactics, including target handoff and layered attack profiles.

Launch is conducted via a pneumatic catapult, enabling MACE deployment from virtually any location without a runway or other infrastructure. This fully mobile launch concept supports rapid redeployment and dispersal, a critical advantage in environments where counter-battery fire and drone hunting operations are prevalent. The system is designed for both day and night operations and incorporates an automatic anti-jamming suite that counters GPS and GLONASS interference as well as navigation spoofing attempts. When satellite navigation is denied, the UAV automatically switches to an inertial navigation system with error correction, preserving mission continuity.

In terms of physical characteristics, MACE measures approximately 1.38 meters in length with a wingspan of 1.92 meters and a maximum takeoff weight of 11.7 kilograms. The electric powerplant supports a cruise speed of about 23 meters per second and an endurance of up to 80 minutes, with a maximum operational altitude of 2,000 meters. The composite fuselage, built from Kevlar and glass-carbon fiber materials, balances structural strength with reduced weight. The system is rated for operation from -35 to +50 degrees Celsius and can withstand wind speeds up to 15 m/s.

Payload options include modular electro-optical and thermal sensor packages. The daylight vision module features a stabilized camera with 100x zoom, combining 25x optical and 4x digital zoom, and a whole 360-degree azimuthal field of view. Automatic target capture and tracking functions are integrated, supported by digital image stabilization. For night and adverse weather operations, the thermal imaging module provides a 360-degree view with 4x digital zoom and the same stabilization and tracking features, ensuring consistent target acquisition across all lighting conditions.

Telemetry and video data are transmitted over an encrypted two-way digital channel using AES-128 or AES-256. The standard line-of-sight range reaches up to 75 kilometers, which can be extended to approximately 100 kilometers through MESH networking and airborne relay. Mission planning and execution are managed through a visual interface based on satellite imagery, enabling operators to adjust flight paths and engagement parameters in real time as battlefield conditions evolve.

With MACE, U & C is positioning itself as a serious contender in the rapidly expanding European loitering munition market. By combining design elements inspired by proven combat systems with enhanced networking, electronic warfare resistance, and modular payloads, the Czech firm is offering armed forces a flexible strike solution tailored for modern, sensor-dense battlefields. For militaries seeking cost-effective precision strike capabilities without reliance on vulnerable satellite navigation or fixed launch infrastructure, MACE represents a notable evolution in loitering munition design.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.