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?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 1 free story per week
- Personalised news alerts
- Daily and weekly newsletters
- Free magazine subscription to all our titles
- Downloadable equipment data handbooks
- Distribution rights (Corporate only)
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
- 10-year news archive access
- Downloadable equipment data handbooks
- Distribution rights (Corporate only)
More from Air Warfare
-
![Germany to adapt Airbus H145 helicopters for combat role]()
Germany to adapt Airbus H145 helicopters for combat role
Reports suggest Germany has decided to buy Airbus H145 aircraft and modify them for armed operations instead of opting for upgraded Tiger attack helicopters.
-
![Poland to send MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine within days]()
Poland to send MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine within days
Poland has pledged to deliver four MiG-29 jets to Ukraine in full working order, becoming the first NATO member to supply fighters to Ukraine. The Polish Air Force will replace them with FA-50 and F-35 jets.
-
![Turkey considers ditching F-16 Block 70 request in favour of non-US alternative]()
Turkey considers ditching F-16 Block 70 request in favour of non-US alternative
Turkish officials are signalling dissatisfaction and contemplating abandoning plans to purchase F-16 Block 70s from the US as the deal stalemates, and the country faces hard economic decisions.
-
![Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with]()
Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with
The Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jet is still in the limelight over 40 years after its first flight. Shephard sums up the latest developments and tells you everything you need to know about the aircraft in the 2020s.
-
![Bell delivers first 505 helicopters to Bahrain]()
Bell delivers first 505 helicopters to Bahrain
Bahrain already operates other Bell helicopter models and has now received the first three 505 aircraft.
