R2-120 Raijin UAV: The Base of MBDA’s Diamond-Shaped Loitering Munition Unveiled at SOFINS 2025

At SOFINS 2025, Fly-R—a UAV innovator based on the French island of La Réunion—once again captured attention by showcasing the R2-120 Raijin, the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that forms the basis of MBDA’s futuristic diamond-shaped loitering munition. This next-generation system, first seen at IDEX 2025, represents a powerful fusion of advanced aerodynamics and battlefield-ready versatility.

The event marked a continuation of Fly-R’s upward trajectory, which began with their major innovation award at SOFINS 2023. That milestone, awarded by former French Defence Minister Florence Parly to Fly-R CEO Remi Albert, helped launch the company into significant defense partnerships—including the current one with MBDA.

What Makes the R2-120 Raijin Special?

At the heart of this innovation is Fly-R’s patented rhomboidal foldable wing technology, a breakthrough that allows the R2-120 Raijin to be tube-launched, setting it apart from other fixed-wing UAVs that require more elaborate launch systems. Its square-section fuselage hosts a carefully engineered deployment mechanism involving two sets of half-wings—each with a specific folding sequence.

The lower front wings fold backward, while the upper rear wings fold forward. During deployment, the lower wings extend first and lock into place with vertical stabilators, creating a stable structure. The upper wings then engage into slots in the stabilators, forming a rigid frame that eliminates wing flutter even at high speeds. This ensures exceptional stability and maneuverability during high-speed missions—an area where most UAVs struggle.

According to Fly-R, no other UAV in this category matches the Raijin’s blend of low-speed loitering and high-speed dash capabilities.

Specifications of the R2-120 Raijin

• Wing Type: Patented foldable rhomboidal wing

• Launch Type: Tube-launched

• Stabilization: Dual-wing interlock system to eliminate flutter

• Flight Profile: Capable of high-speed, stable flight and precise loitering

• Manoeuvrability: Exceptional in class due to advanced wing geometry

• Status: Nearly qualified, undergoing final validation tests

Other UAVs in the Fly-R Lineup

Fly-R’s display at SOFINS 2025 also included a comprehensive panel of other UAVs in various stages of development—all based on the unique rhomboidal wing design:

• R2-150:

  • Wingspan: 1.5 meters

  • Take-off Weight: 15 kg

  • Power: Electric motor

  • Wing Type: Fixed rhomboidal

  • Status: Fully qualified

• R2-240:

  • Wingspan: 2.4 meters

  • Take-off Weight: 60 kg

  • Power: Hybrid propulsion

  • Status: In prototype phase

• R2-HSTD (High-Speed Target Drone):

  • Wingspan: 2.4 meters

  • Take-off Weight: 90 kg

  • Power: Turbojet

  • Max Speed: Mach 0.65

  • Endurance: 1 hour

  • Range: 60 km

• R2-600 (MALE Platform):

  • Wingspan: 6.1 meters

  • Take-off Weight: 1,600 kg (Payload: 600 kg)

  • Power: Twin electric pushing propellers with hybrid engine

  • Cruise Speed: 145 knots

  • Max Speed: 270 knots

  • Endurance: 25 hours

  • Runway Requirement: 500 meters

  • Status: Advanced design stage

The Bigger Picture

Fly-R’s continued success at SOFINS, along with its partnership with MBDA, cements its place among the most innovative UAV developers in Europe. The R2-120 Raijin, in particular, offers a glimpse into the future of air-launched loitering munitions—small, smart, fast, and stable. Its rhomboidal wing configuration isn’t just an aesthetic choice—it’s a functional innovation that enhances flight characteristics in a category that demands both agility and endurance.

As Fly-R continues to scale up its capabilities, their unique aerodynamic solutions are poised to play a major role in next-generation UAV and loitering weapon systems for military forces across the globe.