Russian sea drone 'Katran' raises concerns of copycat tech
The Russians are developing the Katran sea drone, which could threaten Ukrainian units in the Black Sea. However, it appears that not only the name but also the concept of this weapon is a replication of equipment already available to the Ukrainians. The similarities are quite striking.
The sea drone Katran, created by the Center for Systems and Unmanned Technologies in Russia, may be a potential threat to Ukrainian units in the Black Sea, according to experts from the Ukrainian service Defense Express. The drone, designed to carry FPV Skvorets-VMF drones, can effectively counteract Ukrainian unmanned boats. Analysts from DE assert that Russians stole not only the concept but also the name of the Ukrainian drone.
Are the Russians "copying" Ukrainian solutions?
The Katran project, initially little known, gained attention as a response to Ukrainian systems like Katran VENOM. The Russian drone is intended to serve as a carrier for drones capable of attacking Ukrainian shores. Skvorets-VMF has a range of 3-6 miles, reaches speeds up to 93 mph, and carries an explosive payload of 3 pounds.
Katran is equipped with prototypes carrying Skvorets-VMF drones or a remotely controlled turret with a Kord machine gun. Some versions have additional floats to enhance stability. However, a significant difference from the "Ukrainian original" is the lack of satellite communication, which considerably limits its operational range.
Possible threats
The Russian Katran relies on radio communication, making it vulnerable to electronic warfare systems. The control range is 62-124 miles, but it can be extended with a network of relays, according to Defense Express. This is significantly less effective than the satellite communication used in the Ukrainian version of Katran, including systems based on Starlink.
Nonetheless, the weapon could threaten places like Odessa if the Russians decide to use Katrans for covert attacks on ground targets. Its effectiveness, however, would be limited if Ukraine employs electronic warfare systems along the coast.
