Russian use of foreign tech in modified Shahed drones exposed
The Russians are using drones with thermobaric warheads, according to findings by Ukrainian experts. They collected the remains of a modified Shahed 136 drone used by the Russians during recent attacks on Ukraine and analyzed its contents. Researchers noted that the drone could not function efficiently without foreign electronics.
30 October 2024 20:12
Experts from KNISSE informed the Ukrainian service UNN that from October 26-29, 2024, they visited the sites of Russian drone attacks to gather the remains of the drones. Some were handed over to investigative authorities for further research and analysis. Preliminary studies have already shown that components from other countries can be found in these drones.
The Russians modify their unmanned aerial vehicles
"During the preliminary on-site analysis, parts and remains of an unmanned aerial vehicle 'Shahed 136' (Russian designation - 'Geran 2') with a thermobaric warhead were found," the researchers stated. They also added that they identified components from China in the drones, along with the Russian Kometa system, which seems to be the only Russian technology in the Shahed 136.
Russia also uses this technology in X-69 missiles, Iskander-M, or Orlan reconnaissance drones. The analysis of similar remains suggests that the production of this Russian component is not feasible without utilizing foreign microelectronics, emphasizing the UNN service. This highlights the serious issue of acquiring parts or technologies from countries supporting Russia.
Shahed-136 drones
Shahed-136 drones, often referred to as kamikaze drones are used by the Russians to carry out attacks on Ukraine. Iran delivered these unmanned aerial vehicles and have gained notoriety due to their straightforward yet effective design. Shahed-136 measures approximately 3.7 metres in length and reaches speeds of up to 185 km/h. Their greatest advantage is the ability to carry an explosive payload weighing about 41 kilograms, making them a dangerous tool in the hands of aggressors.
The Russians in Ukraine also use Shahed-131 drones, the smaller sibling of Shahed-136. They differ slightly in terms of dimensions and capabilities. This drone is somewhat shorter, allowing its warhead to weigh a maximum of 9-14 kilograms. Despite this, both Shahed-136 and Shahed-131 pose a serious threat to Ukraine's infrastructure and civilian population.
The Russians regularly modify the Shahed drones, adapting them to battlefield conditions. Some units have been painted black to make nighttime detection and interception more difficult. Technological innovations are also emerging. Ukrainians have already shot down Shahed-136 drones equipped with a camera and a 4G modem. An interesting case involved drones with SpaceX's Starlink satellite connectivity. Recently, the aforementioned thermobaric warheads have been observed.
The VAMPIR missile systems and German Gepard systems play a crucial role in combating Iranian drones. Ukrainians are constantly developing their technologies, using FPV drones, which boast greater speed and stronger batteries. Thanks to these initiatives, effective counteraction to numerous attacks by unmanned combat units is possible.
