Shahed-136
The Shahed-136 drones and their modification Geran-2 in Russian service, are one-way attack UAVs designed for long-range strikes on critical infrastructure and military targets.
Their primary role in the ongoing conflict has been as a low-cost, high-impact weapon, allowing Russia to strike Ukrainian cities, power grids, and defense installations with relative impunity.
With a range of up to 2,500 kilometers, these drones can hit targets deep within enemy territory, complicating air defense operations.
These drones are equipped with a combination of GPS and inertial navigation systems, enabling them to fly precise, pre-programmed routes.
This makes them highly effective at striking high-value targets with minimal deviation. Additionally, Shahed-136 is outfitted with thermal imaging cameras, allowing for precision targeting in low-visibility conditions, including night operations.
While the Shahed-136’s design originated in Iran, Russia has significantly ramped up its domestic production of drones, relying on components sourced both locally and from Iran.
As of recent reports, Russia has integrated its own electronics and guidance systems into the drones, improving reliability and capability. This adaptation has allowed for larger-scale deployment on the battlefield.
A key feature of the Shahed-136 is its electronic warfare capability. The drones are equipped with countermeasures to jam enemy radar and air defense systems, providing a tactical advantage in evading interception.
Their small size and low radar cross-section make them difficult to detect, further increasing their effectiveness against advanced defense systems.
By incorporating Shahed-136 drones into multi-layered attack strategies, Russia has been able to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses. These drones are often used in tandem with other missile and UAV strikes, complicating countermeasures and maximizing the chances of hitting critical targets.
As the Russian production capacity increases, these drones are likely to remain a key element in Russia’s aerial combat strategy, presenting a growing challenge for Ukraine’s defense efforts.