The initial focus of the partnership will be the ‘RUTA’ long-range missile, the first Low-Cost Missile (LCM) drone developed by Destinus. Designed to operate in highly contested environments, the RUTA system features an advanced guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) system from UAV Navigation-Oesia Group, validated in real combat situations, including conditions where GNSS is denied or under jamming and spoofing attacks.
RUTA offers autonomous flight capabilities, target-referenced navigation, terminal optical guidance, and coordinated swarm operations. These features enable the execution of complex synchronised attack manoeuvres, helping to saturate or deceive modern defence systems. The platform cruises at a speed of Mach 0.8, with a range of up to 500 km and a final impact accuracy of 15 square metres (CEP).
Grupo Oesía, through its UAV Navigation subsidiary, is responsible for the design, integration, and validation of the GNC system used in the missile, which is developed and manufactured in Spain. This system, based on proprietary technology, enables autonomous take-off, precise low-altitude flight, and high-precision final attack, even without GNSS signals, proven effective in combat.
The system, which has already been deployed in combat operations, has demonstrated high operational value, offering accuracy, range, tactical flexibility, and integration capabilities with other platforms. Its competitive cost and reduced risk to troops, alongside a rapid response to emerging threats, make it a valuable asset.
Supported by the Spanish Ministry of Defence, the partnership aligns with NATO cooperation frameworks, aiming to enhance the system’s capabilities for the Spanish Armed Forces. It also envisions broader EU and international market expansion, strengthening technological sovereignty and boosting Spanish industry’s involvement in high-tech defence programs.
Luis Furnells, President and CEO of Grupo Oesía, commented, “This project demonstrates the advanced technology of UAV Navigation-Grupo Oesía, working with a European leader like Destinus in the field of dual-purpose and multipurpose drones. It represents a further step in our already strong relationship with Destinus and positions us as Tier 1 of a leading systems provider in the sector.”
He added, “It represents a step towards greater strategic autonomy and a more robust national defence industry, as it will provide our Ministry of Defence and the Army with a fully proven operational capability and national sovereignty at the service of European strategic autonomy.”
Mikhail Kokorich, founder of Destinus, highlighted the importance of the partnership, stating, “Such a partnership makes it possible to quickly deliver advanced solutions that respond to the needs identified in recent military conflicts.” He stressed the need for the defence industry to adapt rapidly, adding, “Defence industries must learn to adapt quickly to ensure Europe’s security amid growing threats.”
Placido Marquez, CEO of Destinus Spain, noted the strategic alignment, stating, “This collaboration with the Oesia Group represents a perfect fit between our strategy of vertical integration and collaboration with partners of international scope to offer high-level air systems. It is a model that we could extend to other players.”
Regarding RUTA, Marquez remarked, “This system is proving to be an outstanding piece of engineering for European defence, and we hope that its future developments can be aligned with the needs of Spanish defence.”
Source: Grupo Oesía (press release).
