Dynamic Drone Designs Highlight Russian UAV Ambitions

Russia’s aerospace industry is showcasing several uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) designs as part of its participation at the Dubai Airshow. Among them is the export version of the Forpost medium-range UAV from the Ural Civil Aviation Plant. The Forpost-RE, which made its international debut earlier this year at the IDEX show in Abu Dhabi, is based on the IAI Searcher airframe and offers a reconnaissance and attack capability with the ability to carry weapons of up to 40 kg (about 88 pounds).

Making its debut in Dubai is the Center of Autonomous Robotic Systems KSI. Able to carry a payload of up to 25 kg, the multi-rotor, electric-powered UAV is a modular design that can be adapted to various tasks, including delivery to remote locations and surveillance.

Other reconnaissance drones are on show. The Unmanned Systems Group of Companies is displaying the Supercam S350, a dual-purpose vertical takeoff and landing vehicle, and Supercam X4 rotary-wing drone, both of which are adapted for operations in hot climates. Zala is also displaying an upgraded version of its Lancet-E reconnaissance/attack UAV/loitering munition that has been widely used in the war with Ukraine, primarily in battlefield applications.