Bulgaria Begins Mass Production of SAMJET Loitering Munition

In June 2024, during the HEMUS 2024 International Defence Exhibition in Sofia, Bulgaria, the Bulgarian company Samel-90 unveiled the design of its SAMJET loitering munition. The design of the SAMJET closely resembles other well-known delta-wing loitering munitions such as Iran’s Shahed-136, Israel’s Harpy, and China’s ASN-301. By August 2024, Samel-90 announced the beginning of large-scale production of the SAMJET loitering munition, a move driven by the growing global demand for such weapons. This type of suicide drone has proven highly effective in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, often significantly influencing the battlefield.

SAMJET: A New Force in Modern Warfare

Developed and designed by Samel-90, the SAMJET loitering munition is tailored for strike missions. Its design is notably similar to Iran’s renowned Shahed-136, featuring a unique delta-wing configuration that enables efficient high-speed flight while maintaining stability. This design choice also results in a low radar signature, making the SAMJET difficult to detect and intercept.

The SAMJET, like the Shahed-136, is constructed from lightweight materials, giving it a compact, streamlined shape. It houses essential components such as guidance systems, explosives, and fuel. Capable of carrying a 5-kilogram payload, it offers options for both cumulative and thermobaric warheads, allowing for powerful and precise strikes.

To assist in takeoff, the SAMJET utilizes two small rocket engines mounted on the underside of the fuselage. A rear-mounted pusher propeller, similar to that of the Shahed-136, provides the drone’s primary propulsion. This configuration enables the SAMJET to achieve high speeds and enhances its maneuverability during flight. The SAMJET can fly at speeds ranging from 120 to 250 kilometers per hour, with a range of several hundred kilometers. Its endurance ranges between 60 to 120 minutes, depending on factors such as external conditions and the need for evasive maneuvers.

Advanced Capabilities for Modern Conflict

Designed to be easy to use and rapidly deployable, the SAMJET features fully autonomous takeoff capability, assisted by rocket engines, eliminating the need for assembly or complex preparation before launch. This makes it especially suitable for fast-paced combat scenarios.

During flight, the SAMJET’s position is tracked and displayed on a map, while a forward-facing camera provides real-time video feed. The camera is stabilized on three axes and can be controlled for movement and zoom, allowing operators to identify and confirm targets before initiating the final strike. Remote control is facilitated via a portable interface, either handheld or vehicle-mounted. The drone can store pre-programmed GPS coordinates, enabling it to reach its target without manual navigation. These capabilities ensure high precision and effectiveness, reducing the likelihood of collateral damage.

Samel-90 has emphasized that the SAMJET is fully designed and produced in Bulgaria. The company plans to submit the SAMJET to the Bulgarian Ministry of Defense in the coming months and intends to offer it for export. While Samel-90 has stated that the drone is already in service abroad, no details were provided regarding the operators or countries involved.

Samel-90’s Legacy and Future Vision

Samel-90 has a long history in Bulgaria’s defense industry, dating back to the 1960s, and is well-known for producing electronic warfare systems, communication technologies, and other military equipment. The introduction of the SAMJET marks a significant step for Samel-90 as the company recognizes the growing importance of drones in modern warfare.

Samel-90’s launch of the SAMJET reflects broader trends within the global defense industry, where loitering munitions are increasingly becoming central to military strategy. With its high speed, endurance, and precision targeting capabilities, the SAMJET is expected to become a valuable asset for armed forces seeking to enhance their capabilities with advanced drone technology. Samel-90’s entry into this field underscores its commitment to innovation and its responsiveness to the evolving demands of modern warfare.