Russia Increases KYB Loitering Munitions Production Capacity Tenfold.

The production of the KYB system is a collaboration between Concern Kalashnikov and the Research and Production Association Izhevsk Unmanned Systems LLC. In 2024, the concern announced that this joint venture increased its production capacity tenfold, enabling mass production for various applications. Additionally, Kalashnikov announced the success of an advanced shipment of KYB guided loitering munitions to a client under a state contract.
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The KYB loitering munitions, also known as KUB-BLA, were developed by Zala Aero, a subsidiary of the Kalashnikov Group. (Picture source: Kalashnikov)

The KYB targets and destroys individual and group armored vehicles within the enemy’s tactical depth. Ongoing improvements to the guided loitering munitions are made in close collaboration with the client, with upgraded versions of the KUB UBB now being supplied with increased power, according to Kalashnikov.

In 2022, Kalashnikov announced that the KUB-E system received export permits, facilitating its promotion abroad. The KYB drone has already demonstrated successful combat use in real conditions, and there are few comparable drones on the world market in terms of weight and size. The KYB measures 1210 x 950 x 165 mm and can carry a payload of up to 3 kg.

The KYB was first publicly demonstrated at the IDEX-2019 international exhibition in Abu Dhabi. In April 2024, the RIA Novosti news agency reported the use of KYB loitering munitions in Ukraine.

The KYB loitering munitions, also known as KUB-BLA, were developed by Zala Aero, a subsidiary of the Kalashnikov Group. Based on the combat experience of Russian armed forces in Syria between 2015 and 2018, these munitions are designed for high-precision strikes and discrete, silent operation. They can be launched from a pneumatic catapult or a naval platform, and are capable of identifying targets in real-time thanks to artificial intelligence-assisted visual identification technology.

In addition to their effectiveness against armored vehicles and infrastructure, the KYB can also be used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Their triangular wing design and electric propulsion allow them to remain discreet while operating at speeds of 80 to 130 km/h.

Russia has intensified the production of these drones in response to growing battlefield demands, particularly in the context of the conflict in Ukraine. In March 2022, KYB drones were reported in action in this region, demonstrating their ability to operate in real combat.

With these developments, Kalashnikov continues to improve its loitering munitions to meet the current and future needs of the armed forces, while also seeking to strengthen its international market presence through increased exports.