Russia unveils upgraded Shahed drones with new warheads
Shahed-136 drones used by the Russians have been upgraded with new 198-pound warheads, produced in Russia and Iran, reports the Ukrainian portal Defense Express.
Russian Shahed-136 drones have been fitted with new 198-pound warheads, manufactured both in Russia and Iran, the original home of the Shaheds. These new warheads replace the previous 110-pound versions, enhancing their effectiveness. The new warhead features a combined cumulative, fragmentation, thermobaric, and incendiary effect, the report states.
New technologies in Shahed-136 drones
The new Russian warhead, designated KOFZBCh, uses the same explosive material, TGF-35P2, which is a combination of TNT and phlegmatized RDX, as older variants. This allows it to reach a combustion temperature of up to 6,332 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cooperation between Russia and Iran
The collaboration between Moscow and Tehran in the production of Shahed-136 drones is intensive, with the assembly of these drones taking place in Russia at two plants. The introduction of new warheads represents another step in the ongoing modernization of these devices, which are consistently being improved in terms of technology and tactical usage. Russia continues to update its drones, including satellite navigation systems, to increase their resilience against interference. Additionally, the Russians plan to ramp up the production of Shahed drones.
To explain, the Shahed-136 drones are notable for their unique delta-shaped wings, measuring approximately 11 feet in length with a wingspan of about 8 feet. These unmanned aerial vehicles can carry combat loads weighing up to 88 pounds. Powered by the Limbach L550E engine, these drones can achieve a maximum speed of around 115 mph. Such specifications make them effective in various military operations.
