Russia developing home-grown Switchblade equivalent, footage suggests
As well using a standalone tube launcher, the Russian loitering munition seen in the video can evidently be deployed from a UGV. (Photo: VK via author)
Evidence suggests individual groups of Russian military advisers are circumventing traditional state procurement channels to get new weapon systems such as loitering munitions into the hands of Donbas militias.
Evidence has emerged of what a Russian group of military advisers claims is the country’s equivalent of the AeroVironment Switchblade 300 loitering munition undergoing test flights for Donbas militias.
On November 17, a video was posted on social media by Dmitry Rogozin, head of a Russian military adviser unit calling itself the ‘Tsar’s Wolves', in which he alleged to be testing a new kamikaze drone that could compete with the US Switchblade 300.
In the footage, it is seen deployed via a single-tube launcher and from an uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV). It is notable that different segments seem to have been
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Protecting the horizon]()
Protecting the horizon
Make it an unfair fight, with the EA-37B. Deny, degrade, and disrupt the enemy.
-
![Peru cleared for possible $3.42 billion F-16 Block 70 buy]()
Peru cleared for possible $3.42 billion F-16 Block 70 buy
The potential foreign military sale covers 12 F-16 aircraft as well as related training and equipment support, the DSCA notice said.
-
![DSEI 2025: UK’s new Air Chief Marshal outlines nuclear, space and IAMD as three key priorities for RAF]()
DSEI 2025: UK’s new Air Chief Marshal outlines nuclear, space and IAMD as three key priorities for RAF
Aiming to field a more integrated, agile force, the military leader said in a keynote speech that focus on these core areas would be increased to help the RAF deter and meet challenges in the new threat landscape.
-
![Project Kuiper’s LEO network pioneers Space-as-a-Service]()
Project Kuiper’s LEO network pioneers Space-as-a-Service
The Kuiper Network enables organizations to buy, rather than build, applications that serve mission needs at mission speed.
