The KUB-10ME unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has an operational range exceeding 100 km. Kalashnikov, Russia's defense group, announced on 25/2 that the drone was developed in record time, leveraging experience from operating similar weapons in a special operation.
The manufacturer states the KUB-10ME can fly at an altitude of 80-1,800 m with a cruising speed of 120 km/h. This UAV operates day and night in all weather conditions, including wind gusts near 40 km/h and temperatures ranging from -30 to 40 degrees C. The destructive power of the aircraft's warhead is not yet clear.
According to Kalashnikov group, the KUB-10ME's key difference from similar aircraft is its opto-electronic guidance system, which enables the UAV to track and engage mobile targets. The KUB-10ME also boasts significantly enhanced data security and anti-jamming capabilities, aiming to limit the impact from enemy electronic warfare systems.
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Simulation of the KUB-10ME UAV. *Graphics: Kalashnikov* |
The KUB-10ME is designed for precision strikes against targets deep within enemy rear lines. These targets include light armored vehicles, infantry fighting vehicles, air defense positions, deployment sites for reconnaissance and electronic warfare equipment, UAV launch sites, and enemy helicopters or aircraft parked outdoors.
Russian military analysts consider the KUB-10ME an upgraded variant of the original KUB series, which only had a flight range of about 30 km.
Expert Ilya Abramov believes Kalashnikov's new aircraft will change Russian forces' battlefield tactics. "The KUB-10ME's operational range of up to 100 km eliminates the current front-rear boundary, directly impacting combat operations within enemy defense perimeters," he said.
The KUB-10ME can operate independently and integrate into a unified network, allowing it to share and receive target data from other UAVs or reconnaissance assets. "This is a step towards establishing a combined reconnaissance and attack network, where all components operate as a single entity," expert Abramov noted.
Nguyen Tien (According to RIA Novosti, TASS, AP)
