Ukrainian armed forces unveil first jet‑powered drone in response to Russia's actions
It's worth noting that the defense forces have been investing for some time in the development of unmanned kamikaze drones for enemy attacks. This choice isn't surprising, primarily due to the benefits offered by these compact machines. As well as being much more cost-effective compared to traditional artillery projectiles, they are highly effective weapons able to target and destroy even heavily armored enemy machinery.
9:14 AM EST, January 18, 2024
In the interim, the Ukrainians have presented their latest creation in the unmanned aircraft category. This is the first kamikaze drone with a jet engine in the history of their military. The machine has completed testing and might soon be prepared to launch attacks against the Russians. This demonstration coincides with the interception of Russia's new Shahed-238 drones over Ukraine, which are also jet engine-powered. Recently, the Russians have begun employing them.
The specifics regarding these new designs for the defense forces remain relatively unknown. So far, the Ukrainians have displayed an unmanned, jet engine-powered aircraft in a video capturing its takeoff and a brief flight. This, coupled with the knowledge that the technology is jet-engine operated, is essentially the full extent of the known technical specifications for the weapon at this time.
The new drone bears a visual resemblance to the widely recognized VG-26 Beaver, the main type of drone the Ukrainians have used in recent months for attacks targeting buildings in Moscow. Beavers measure approximately 8.2 feet in length with a wingspan close to 11.5 feet, and it's likely that the new unmanned jet aircraft shares similar dimensions. Furthermore, international sources have reported that the manufacturer has outfitted these machines with electronic warfare systems.
In tandem with quiet jet engines, such systems could mean these drones will move nearly silently in the Russian skies. Consequently, they may also serve as decoys when targeting Russian positions, for instance, with Storm Shadow missiles.
