New Insights into UAVs: Components and Threats
The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine has released new details about unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) being utilized by Russia for reconnaissance and as targets for Ukrainian air defense. These UAVs are capable of not only reconnaissance missions but also carrying combat payloads weighing up to 15 kg.
According to the GUR, the new drones feature a delta-wing design similar to the well-known Shahed-136, but in much smaller dimensions. The report states that all key components are sourced from China.
About half of these components, including flight controllers and navigation systems, are supplied by the Chinese company CUAV Technology, which specializes in UAV development.
The GUR also reminded that in October 2022, this company restricted its product supplies to Ukraine and Russia to prevent military usage. However, in 2023, Russia showcased new UAVs that turned out to be CUAV Technology products available on Aliexpress.
In addition to CUAV components, these UAVs include DLE engines and electronics, KST servos, Foxeer FPV cameras, as well as Mayatech and ReadyToSky data transmission modules.
It is noted that the UAVs are also equipped with a Chinese version of the Australian RFD900x data transmission module, which allows data exchange over distances of up to 40 km, depending on the antenna used.
This device facilitates communication between drones or between a drone and a ground station, thereby enhancing reconnaissance capabilities.
The GUR emphasized that DLE engines have previously been used in other Russian UAVs such as "Gerbera" and "Parodya."
Lastly, the head of GUR, Kyrylo Budanov, stated that North Korea currently supplies up to 40% of munitions for Russia in the war against Ukraine, indicating a deepening partnership.
