PCC Introduces Nightray Stealth Loitering Munition for Precision Strike Missions.

The Czech-developed MTS Nightray stealth one-way attack unmanned aerial system is being presented at UMEX 2026 on the Calidus booth, highlighting a collaborative industry showcase model. Its appearance underscores growing regional and global demand for autonomous strike systems designed to operate in contested and electronically degraded environments.

At the UMEX 2026 defense exhibition, Czech company LPP is showcasing its MTS Nightray stealth one-way attack unmanned aerial system as part of a joint presentation on the Calidus booth, according to information released at the show. The placement reflects a broader industry trend in which European developers partner with regional defense firms to position autonomous strike capabilities for Middle Eastern and international customers facing increasingly complex electronic warfare conditions.
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Czech firm LPP showcases its Nightray stealth loitering munition at UMEX 2026, highlighting demand for autonomous strike systems in contested environments  (Picture source: Army Recognition)

The MTS Nightray is presented as a stealth one-way attack unmanned aerial system, often described as a loitering munition, intended to engage high-value targets deep inside defended airspace. The system is developed as part of the broader MTS ecosystem and emphasizes survivability against modern air defense and electronic warfare threats. Its overall design philosophy combines reduced observability, autonomous navigation, and flexible launch options to support penetration missions where conventional unmanned platforms face increased vulnerability.

Low observability is a defining characteristic of the Nightray. The air vehicle adopts an optimized flying wing configuration intended to reduce radar cross-section through both shape and edge alignment. This aerodynamic layout is complemented by a radar-deflecting material developed in-house by LPP, forming part of the system’s signature management strategy. Propulsion is provided by a buried turbojet engine, a configuration designed to limit radar returns and infrared emissions while enabling higher speeds than propeller-driven loitering munitions.

In terms of physical characteristics, the Nightray measures approximately 1.77 meters in length and features a wingspan of around 4 meters. Compared with the Narwhal system from the same manufacturer, it is shorter but has a wider span, reflecting its focus on efficiency and stability during long-range penetration flights. The platform carries a 30 kilogram warhead and is credited with a maximum range of up to 400 kilometers, while reaching speeds of up to 500 kilometers per hour, placing it between traditional loitering munitions and compact cruise missile-like systems in operational concept.

Navigation and guidance rely on a proprietary Visual navigation solution integrated with a custom-developed autopilot. This architecture enables fully autonomous operation in GPS-denied or heavily jammed environments by using visual references for positioning and course correction. The same navigation technology is employed across other battle-proven MTS aerial vehicles. For missions requiring operator involvement, the Nightray can be fitted with an optional jamming-resistant radio link that supports human-in-the-loop control, in-flight target adjustment, and real-time telemetry transmission.

The Nightray is delivered as a complete and ready-to-deploy system. According to the manufacturer, the package includes the aerial vehicle, autopilot, visual navigation system, onboard electronics, propulsion unit, warhead, and mission planning tools. All elements are designed, developed, and manufactured in-house in the Czech Republic, reflecting LPP’s vertically integrated approach. This model allows tighter control over system performance and configuration while reducing dependence on external suppliers.

Operational flexibility is further supported by multiple launch options. The Nightray can be launched via a catapult or from runways and roads using a reusable trolley launch system. This launch infrastructure is shared with the Narwhal, enabling mixed-fleet operations and simplifying logistics for operators deploying multiple MTS platforms from the same forward locations. Such flexibility aligns with dispersed basing concepts and rapid deployment requirements in high-threat environments.

Within LPP’s product portfolio, the Nightray complements the Narwhal by emphasizing stealth penetration rather than endurance or persistence. It is positioned specifically for missions involving dense integrated air defense systems (IADS), where reduced signatures, autonomous navigation, and higher transit speeds are essential to mission success. Its design reflects evolving operational requirements shaped by the widespread deployment of layered air defense networks.

The presence of the MTS Nightray at UMEX 2026, showcased by LPP on the Calidus booth, highlights the growing role of international partnerships and exhibition platforms in promoting advanced unmanned strike systems. As LPP continues to expand its portfolio of one-way attack UAS, the emergence and potential proliferation of systems such as the Nightray raise broader questions about export, accessibility, and the diffusion of stealth strike capabilities. These developments are likely to influence future air defense planning and counter-UAS strategies as low-observable, autonomous attack systems become more widely available on the global defense market.