EMT Luna
Summary
| Category | Military Drones |
| Origin country | 🇩🇪 Germany |
| Manufacturer | EMT |
| Year introduced | 2000 |
Technical specifications
| Version: Luna X-2000 | |
|---|---|
| Operational range | 65 km (40 mi) |
| Endurance | 6 hours |
| Maximum speed | 70 km/h (43 mph) |
| Wingspan | 4.2 m (13.7 ft) |
| Length | 2.4 m (7.7 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 3,500 m (11,483 ft) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 40 kg (88 lbs) |
| Powerplant | 1 x two cylinder two stroke engine |
All operators
Description
The Luna X-2000 is a German unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance aerial vehicle produced by EMT Penzberg for the German Army (Bundeswehr). Designed for close reconnaissance up to 65 kilometers away, the UAV transmits live visual or infrared video data and takes high-resolution still images. Depending on the payload, the platform can also perform particle sampling, electronic support measures (ESM), and radio or radar jamming.
The aircraft is powered by a two-cylinder, two-stroke engine driving a pusher propeller. It has a wingspan of 4.17 meters, a length of 2.36 meters, and a maximum take-off weight of under 40 kilograms. Performance specifications include a speed of 70 kilometers per hour, a service ceiling of 3,500 meters, and a standard flight endurance of six hours, with an optional eight-hour configuration. Its data link range is greater than 100 kilometers, subject to line of sight.
The system is launched using a bungee catapult and follows a preprogrammed course that operators can alter during flight. Recovery is automated, utilizing a parachute and impact dampers for landing.
The German Army deployed the Luna X-2000 with KFOR forces starting in 2000, and subsequently operated the system in Afghanistan. In mid-2009, the German Army ordered an additional four systems, totaling 40 UAVs. For export, the Pakistan Navy contracted with EMT on June 27, 2012, to purchase LUNA systems. Saudi Arabia produces the UAV under license; Houthi forces shot down a Saudi-operated Luna drone in Yemen around February 12, 2019. On August 14, 2023, Rheinmetall announced it would supply the Luna drone to Ukraine.
In 2019, the German Army began replacing its Luna and Rheinmetall KZO fleets with the Luna NG.
Main Variants
- Luna NG: An updated variant with increased capabilities introduced in 2019 to replace the legacy Luna and Rheinmetall KZO systems in the German Army.
- Luna NG drone carrier: A planned variant designed to act as a mothership to carry and deploy up to eight rotary wing loitering munitions.