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From Ukraine’s Frontlines to IDEX 2025: Karakurt-R a Micro-Drone for Stealth Recon Operations.
Russian Compagny Kalashnikov presents its Karakurt-R reconnaissance micro-drone for the first time on the international stage at IDEX 2025, held in Abu Dhabi from February 17 to 21. Developed to provide armed forces with a rapid and discreet surveillance capability, this vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone has already been deployed in Ukraine, where its performance was assessed under real combat conditions. Feedback from its operational use has led to modifications and enhancements to better meet the requirements of military units in the field.
Karakurt-R's small size and rapid deployment capabilities have proven valuable for reconnaissance teams operating in contested areas (Picture source: Army Recognition)
The Karakurt-R is designed as a personal reconnaissance tool that can be easily deployed. Compact and lightweight, it weighs 300 grams, making it convenient for soldiers to carry. Its tube-launch system allows for immediate deployment without the need for additional infrastructure or complex equipment. Once airborne, it reaches a maximum speed of 25 km/h and has a flight endurance of 20 minutes, making it suitable for short surveillance missions that require high responsiveness. It operates at an altitude of up to 150 meters and has a range of 2,000 meters.
One of the Karakurt-R's key features is its optical system, which enables reconnaissance missions both during the day and at night. The system includes two drones equipped with daytime video cameras and two fitted with sensors for night operations, ensuring continuous surveillance regardless of lighting conditions. These drones are stored in transport and launch modules, facilitating their deployment. A remote control terminal allows operators to receive real-time imagery and manage drone operations.
Designed for maneuverability in confined environments, the Karakurt-R can operate in urban areas or tight spaces where larger aerial vehicles are less effective. Its lightweight design and agility make it particularly useful for infantry units operating on the front lines. In Ukraine, it has been used to gather precise intelligence on enemy positions, helping to adjust operations accordingly. In the event of signal loss, the drone is programmed to return to its launch point, ensuring the security of collected data.
The conflict in Ukraine has demonstrated the role of the Karakurt-R in modern military operations. Its small size and rapid deployment capabilities have proven valuable for reconnaissance teams operating in contested areas. The use of small UAVs in warfare has highlighted their ability to provide real-time intelligence, track adversary movements, correct artillery fire, and enhance battlefield coordination. The Karakurt-R, with its tube-launch system and low detection profile, provides an additional operational advantage by delivering reconnaissance data without exposing soldiers to direct threats. Its deployment has also highlighted the need for improved endurance and resistance to electronic countermeasures, areas that Kalashnikov is actively addressing.
The introduction of the Karakurt-R at IDEX 2025 marks a significant step for Kalashnikov as it expands its presence in the military drone sector. The increasing reliance on UAVs in contemporary conflicts is driving defense manufacturers to develop systems that are more efficient and tailored to military needs. With this reconnaissance micro-drone, Kalashnikov aims to strengthen its position in the international market while showcasing a system already tested in active conflict. IDEX provides an opportunity for the company to attract potential buyers and demonstrate the capabilities of its unmanned aerial systems.