The S-70 Okhotnik-B, also known as "Hunter," is a Russian-made stealth unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) developed by Sukhoi under the Russian Ministry of Defense. Designed for reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and precision strikes, the Okhotnik-B is intended to operate both autonomously and in coordination with manned aircraft, such as the Su-57 fifth-generation fighter. Its development marks a significant advancement in Russia’s air combat capabilities, enhancing the operational flexibility of the Russian Air Force.
Country users: Russia
Technical Data
-
Design
The S-70 Okhotnik-B features a flying-wing, tailless design, which is optimized for stealth. Its airframe is constructed from radar-absorbent materials, significantly reducing its radar cross-section and making it difficult to detect by enemy radar systems. The flying-wing configuration provides aerodynamic efficiency and increased internal volume for payloads. The internal storage of weapons and sensors further enhances its low-observable characteristics. The UCAV is powered by an AL-31F turbofan engine, derived from the Su-27 fighter, although future upgrades may involve more advanced propulsion systems to improve performance and endurance.
-
Payload (Optics and Armament)
The Okhotnik-B is equipped with an advanced sensor suite, which includes electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT) systems. These sensors provide it with the capability to conduct detailed reconnaissance, track targets, and gather intelligence in various conditions.
The UCAV’s armament consists of a variety of precision-guided munitions stored in internal bays to maintain its stealth characteristics. It can carry air-to-surface missiles, such as the Kh-38 and Kh-59, as well as precision-guided bombs (PGMs) like the KAB-series. This range of weaponry allows it to perform a variety of strike missions, from tactical close air support to strategic deep strikes. The internal storage ensures that the aircraft maintains a low radar profile even when fully armed.
-
Flight Capabilities
The S-70 Okhotnik-B is capable of reaching speeds up to 1,000 km/h, or approximately 0.8 Mach, which allows it to engage in high-speed strike and reconnaissance missions. It has a combat radius of up to 4,000 km, providing significant operational reach, allowing it to operate deep behind enemy lines without requiring mid-air refueling. The UCAV is also capable of flying at altitudes of up to 12,000 meters, which positions it above the effective range of many ground-based air defense systems. Its endurance is designed for long missions, allowing it to loiter in contested airspace and gather intelligence or conduct strikes over extended periods.
-
Combat Use
Although detailed combat operations involving the S-70 remain undisclosed, it is believed that the Okhotnik-B will be deployed in a wide range of missions that leverage its stealth and autonomous capabilities. Its ability to penetrate defended airspace makes it an ideal platform for SEAD operations, neutralizing enemy air defense networks ahead of manned aircraft incursions. In coordination with the Su-57, the Okhotnik-B is expected to participate in complex, high-risk missions where the combination of manned-unmanned teams offers tactical advantages, such as electronic warfare, precision strikes, and air superiority operations. With its high-endurance capabilities, it can also serve in long-duration reconnaissance roles, providing continuous intelligence gathering in hostile or contested zones.
Photo Gallery
