TechUkrainian drone innovation soars with long-range 'Lyuty' taking the lead

Ukrainian drone innovation soars with long-range 'Lyuty' taking the lead

Skyranger Swift
Skyranger Swift
Images source: © Defence Express
Mateusz Sołtysiak

13 May 2024 07:51

Defence Express reports on new achievements in Ukrainian drone technology, among which the "Lyuty" model stands out. This kamikaze drone can attack targets up to 1500 kilometres away, making it the leader among Ukrainian UAVs in range.

The "Lyuty" drone represents a significant advancement over previous models, boasting the most extended range – it can even reach oil refineries in Bashkiria, as reported by "Ukrainska Pravda." Alongside "Lyuty," there are other drones like the "Ninja," which also achieves a range of 1500 kilometres, though its precise role is somewhat less defined.

The diversity of Ukrainian drones

Various Ukrainian drones are making their marks on the international stage, including those modelled after the lightweight Skyranger airplane. Despite similarities, models like Skyranger Nynja and Swift differ in their functions – the Swift, for instance, is likely reusable and can carry bombs. In contrast, others like the "Ninja" are designed for single-use missions with explosives on board.

Skyranger Swift
Skyranger Swift© Defence Express
Ukrainian kamikaze drones, including "Lyuty" and "Ninja," are becoming increasingly vital due to their capability to perform precise long-distance attacks, highlighting their growing significance in contemporary warfare.

Drones are turning into a crucial part of modern combat. Ukraine has recognized this trend, making more extensive use of unmanned aerial vehicles. Furthermore, Ukraine is utilizing existing machines and developing them independently. For instance, a drone named Mamut strikes specific targets accurately. However, development and testing of new drone models are ongoing.

The Ukrainian armed forces have partnered with private companies possessing greater drone design expertise. As part of this partnership, the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence recently tested six new unmanned aerial vehicle models. The outcomes of these tests have yet to be disclosed.

However, it is acknowledged that this partnership enables the identification and rectification of drone weaknesses. This initiative is geared towards enhancing drone designs to increase their resilience against enemy electronic warfare, explicitly aiming to improve resistance to the jamming of video communication and control channels.

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