Ukraine Unveils Locally-Made Loitering Munition Utilizing Russian Lancet Drone Technology.

In a video published on YouTube by Xavier Tytelman on December 23, 2023, it was revealed that Ukraine has locally developed and designed a new type of loitering ammunition drone. This innovative drone, based on the technology of the Russian Lancet drone, is capable of effectively targeting and destroying various armored vehicles.
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The new Ukrainian-made loitering munition is based on the Russian  Lancet drone technology. (Picture source Video footage Xavier Tytelman)

Developed from the insights gained from the Lancet kamikaze drone, which has proven highly efficient on the Ukrainian battlefield, this new medium-sized drone is manufactured using basic components readily available in hardware stores. It features a conventional design with a long fuselage with upper-mounted wings and a V-tail that replaces the traditional vertical and horizontal surfaces with two surfaces set in a V-shaped configuration. Weighing approximately 1.5 kg without its payload, the drone boasts an impressive range of 20 to 50 km and can reach speeds between 120 and 150 km/h.

Equipped with an electric motor at the rear of the fuselage, the drone can carry different components, including GPS jamming systems, day and night vision cameras, and a GNSS (Global navigation satellite system) sensor. The price ranges from 5,000 to 12,000 Euros, depending on the version.

Unique to this drone is its artificial intelligence system, which enables it to identify potential targets using a color-coding scheme. Operators can select targets on their control screens, allowing the drone to autonomously navigate towards and attack the target, even in case of a lost connection with the control console. This feature guarantees a 100% success rate in destroying targets, including those in motion.

At the front, the drone houses an optical system for navigation and a hollow-charge explosive payload capable of destroying modern main battle tanks. The drone is launched using a catapult ramp similar to the one used by the Russian Orlan-10 drone, which has a length of approximately 5 meters.

The Ukrainian army has validated the electric motor version of the drone, with large-scale production already underway. In addition to the standard model, developers are working on a long-range version of the drone, powered by a thermal engine. This enhancement will enable it to cover several hundred kilometers, potentially allowing it to reach as far as Moscow from central Ukraine. Currently in the development stage, this version faces the challenge of needing to operate at extreme altitudes, either very high or very low.

Emphasizing its advanced capabilities, the drone is designed for total autonomy. Its flight plan is programmed in advance, enabling it to function as an autonomous missile, a feature that adds a significant strategic advantage in modern warfare scenarios.

Defense News December 2023