Ukraine Unveils New Bulava Loitering Munition a Response to Russian Lancet Drone.

Ukraine has presented its latest kamikaze drone, the "Bulava," at the Eurosatory 2024 International Defense Exhibition in Paris. This drone, known as the Mace for export, is Ukraine's response to the Russian “Lancet” drone and highlights advancements in Ukraine's defense industry.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Developed by the Ukrainian Czech company UAC, the Bulava is notable for its X-shaped design. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Developed by the Ukrainian Czech company UAC, the Bulava is notable for its X-shaped design and powerful 3.6 kg thermobaric warhead. This drone can strike targets up to 60 kilometers away. With a wingspan of 1.6 meters and a fuselage length of 1.5 meters, the Bulava weighs 11 kg and can reach a maximum flight altitude of 2000 meters. Powered by an electric motor, it can fly at a speed of 100 km/h and remain airborne for more than 50 minutes.

The Bulava is equipped with a communication module featuring an encrypted channel and a CRPA antenna, making it resistant to electronic warfare. It also uses MESH technology to transmit data via a relay drone, enhancing its battlefield effectiveness. The drone can be controlled directly by an operator or via satellite coordinates. Additionally, it can work in conjunction with another drone presented at Eurosatory 2024, the Leleka.

The Bulava is fitted with an optical station with day and night thermal imaging channels for targeting. Target detection and tracking can be performed by an operator or through a machine vision system, allowing for high-precision strikes even in low-visibility conditions.

The Bulava was one of the main attractions at Eurosatory 2024, showcasing Ukraine's capability to develop cutting-edge military drone technologies. This drone was developed for various missions such as target reconnaissance, precision strikes, and destroying ammunition depots and fortified points.

The Bulava's maneuverability is enhanced by its X-shaped tail, allowing it to attack targets from less protected angles. This design also provides great stability and precision during flight and attack maneuvers.

The development of the Bulava is part of a broader strategy of modernization and innovation in the Ukrainian armed forces. In addition to the Bulava, Ukraine also presented other innovations at the exhibition, such as the Magura V5 drone and the Raybird drone from Skyeton. These drones are designed to improve situational awareness on the battlefield and enhance long-range strike capabilities.

The operational results of the Bulava on the ground, especially in the ongoing conflict with Russia, have already demonstrated its effectiveness. Bulava drone units have been successfully used to destroy Russian military equipment, including S60 anti-aircraft artillery systems, T-72 tanks, and other armored vehicles, underscoring their game-changing capability in modern military operations.