Russia claims significant upgrade to Lancet drones

Russia's information apparatus asserts that the "Lancet" drones, or loitering munitions, have been significantly enhanced. The operators of these drones, which are extensively used on the Ukrainian front, now assert that they can function effectively in nighttime conditions.

Lancet drones are primarily employed by Russians to disable armored vehicles. Previously, we reported on the Russians frequently being on the hunt for Polish Krab self-propelled howitzers using these same loitering munitions. They have also been utilized to target key assets behind the Ukrainian forces, including supply chains.

The emphasis from the spokespeople on adaptations for nocturnal operations suggests that the Lancet might be equipped with an inexpensive thermal imaging camera. However, specialists assert that this theory is misguided. Russia does not have access to cheap, disposable thermal imaging cameras in its domestic market. Furthermore, procuring them from overseas would present substantial challenges.

Russia also lacks the necessary materials to establish new production lines for cheap thermal imaging within its borders. Consequently, the more viable option appears to be outfitting the Lancets with video cameras operating in the infrared spectrum. Such devices are far less expensive and currently available to Russians from foreign sources.

The introduction of drones capable of acting under the cover of darkness could hamper the defensive capabilities of the Ukrainian Defense Forces. For the moment, these weapons are being tested under front-line conditions. If the propagandized reports are proven correct, we should expect confirmed sightings of these drones from the Ukrainian side in the near future.

Perhaps the enhanced capabilities of the Lancets are connected to a recently revealed developmental version of the drone. The so-called Lancet LM is touted as a weapon that will render spine-mounted vehicle grilles and anti-drone nets ineffective. It is also expected to come equipped with a feature that allows for the remote detonation of the warhead at a decided distance from the target.