File image.
Russia has used a new variant of its Geran-5 one-way attack drone equipped with optical navigation in an attack on Ukraine, Ukrainian defense technology adviser Serhii Beskrestnov said on October 23.
The modified drone, designated the Geran-5 K5-K, was first detected about a month ago, according to Beskrestnov, who advises Ukraine’s president on defense technology and is known by the nickname “Flash.”
The main distinguishing feature of the new variant is an optical navigation system that allows it to navigate using images of the terrain rather than relying solely on satellite signals, which can be disrupted by electronic warfare systems.
The new variant also has greater range, speed and flight altitude than previous versions, Beskrestnov said, without providing specific performance figures.
A photo shared by Beskrestnov also revealed that the Geran-5 K5-K came in a completely new low-observable design, likely meant to reduce its radar cross section.
Click to see full-size image.
Russia also used its new, low-cost cruise missile called the Filin on the same day, Beskrestnov said, sharing the first photo of the weapon.
The Filin, whose existence was revealed by Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence agency a day earlier, has a reported range of up to 1,200 kilometers, a top speed of 800 kph and an operating altitude of up to 6 kilometers. Its warhead is comparable in weight to the warheads carried by one or two Geran-type attack drones, according to details previously shared by Beskrestnov.
Ukrainian intelligence said Russia began using the Filin against Ukraine in late summer as Moscow increasingly turned to faster jet-powered strike weapons.
Click to see full-size image.
Russia’s state-owned Rostec corporation revealed earlier this week that it is developing a new generation of attack drones designed to fly farther, faster and more autonomously, building on its Dan-T loitering munition, which the company says has capabilities comparable to those of cruise missiles.
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