According to TASS on October 11, 2023, Russian defense specialists recently unveiled a high-speed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) named "Tubus." This drone has been designed with the primary objective of targeting enemy armored vehicles and artillery deep within the frontlines, as reported by a source within the defense industry complex.
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Russian "Tubus" high-speed UAV (Picture source: TASS)
One of the standout features of the "Tubus" drone is its flight speed, which can reach up to 300 km/h. This speed surpasses that of other Russian drones, which typically fly at speeds ranging from 100 to 150 km/h. The increased speed of "Tubus" not only enhances its ability to reach its designated target rapidly but also makes it a more challenging target for adversaries, as it is less susceptible to being shot down with small arms.
The "Tubus" UAV is primarily intended for countering armored vehicles and artillery. It has a range of 30-40 kilometers, making it suitable for targeting enemy artillery installations deep within the frontlines, a task that has posed a significant challenge for military strategists.
This high-speed drone is known for its portability and ease of use. The drone itself weighs 10 kilograms, while the launch system, separate from the drone, weighs 5 kilograms. This weight is manageable for personnel, similar to certain grenade launchers. When deployed, the launch system can be discarded after firing.
In an era where electronic warfare plays an increasingly crucial role in modern conflicts, the developers of the "Tubus" have highlighted its resistance against enemy electronic countermeasures which results in the drone's complete autonomy, as it operates independently of satellite-based systems. Instead, the UAV relies on pre-determined coordinates provided by reconnaissance to accurately target and engage enemy assets.
Following successful internal testing, the "Tubus" drone is now planned for use in the Ukrainian war. Official testing is scheduled to begin in the next two months, which will provide a more comprehensive evaluation of the drone's performance and its suitability for practical military applications.
