Russia escalates use of advanced drones with enhanced communication and remote control capabilities in Ukraine
In the ongoing conflicts on Ukrainian frontlines, Moscow continues deploying cutting-edge unmanned systems equipped with modern communication and control technologies.
The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s Defense Ministry has unveiled details of a new Russian drone, presenting a 3D model and comprehensive technical specifications.
According to Ukrainian intelligence, this drone is actively employed to carry out strikes across various points on the front, fulfilling roles such as reconnaissance, attack drone, or decoy to overload Ukraine’s air defense systems.
The UAV features two LTE modems, enabling real-time video streaming or recording for analysis, as well as the reception of navigational commands to adjust its route mid-flight.
In its combat variant, operators can control a camera with a configurable viewing angle, aiding precise target guidance following FPV principles.
Structurally, this drone adopts a ‘delta-wing’ design, bearing resemblance to the Iranian Shahed-131 (‘Geran-1’), though it is notably smaller.
Navigation is secured through a protected satellite system with four patch antennas and Chinese Allystar modules, with approximately half of its components produced in China, including communication modules, a mini-computer, power regulator, and crystal oscillator.
The DLE engine mounted at the nose makes this drone similar in appearance to Russian-made loitering munitions like ‘Italmass’ manufactured by ZALA Group.
These developments highlight Russia’s technological ambitions in UAV warfare, actively implemented on Ukrainian battlefields.
Additionally, a supplier for F-35 systems plans to assist Ukraine in developing ‘smart’ weapons against drones, promising a significant shift in drone countermeasures.
Ukrainian military reports confirm that the new Russian drone has already been involved in attacks in the Sumy region, showcasing advanced technological capabilities and the ability to breach modern air defense systems.