August M
Ukraine’s military intelligence says Moscow has introduced another new weapon into its expanding aerial campaign. The development comes as Russian forces continue to pressure Ukrainian cities and infrastructure with sustained attacks from the air.
Officials say the latest system reflects a broader push by Russia to modernise its drone arsenal.
New model appears
According to the Kyiv Independent, Ukraine’s military intelligence agency (HUR) reported on Jan. 11 that Russian forces had deployed a new attack drone, known as the Geran-5, for the first time at the start of the year.
The unmanned aircraft is described as resembling Iran’s Karrar drone and is powered by a Telefly jet engine. HUR said the engine delivers greater thrust than earlier Geran-3 models.
Attack drones have become central to Russia’s strategy, particularly as strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure have intensified in recent weeks.
Design and capabilities
Ukrainian intelligence said the Geran-5 differs from previous Geran drones, which were based on Iran’s Shahed design. Instead, the new model uses a more conventional aerodynamic layout.
The drone is around six metres long, with a wingspan of roughly 5.5 metres. It can reportedly carry a warhead weighing up to 90 kilograms and has an estimated range of nearly 1,000 kilometres, potentially allowing it to reach targets across Ukraine.
Despite the design changes, some systems mirror earlier versions, including the Cometa satellite navigation system and tracking equipment using Raspberry Pi microcomputers with 3G and 4G modems.
Expanded roles considered
HUR said Russia is exploring ways to extend the drone’s operational use. One option under consideration is launching Geran-5 drones from attack aircraft such as the Su-25, which could further increase their range.
Russian planners are also reportedly examining whether the drones could be equipped with R-73 air-to-air missiles, allowing them to counter Ukrainian aircraft.
These assessments underscore Moscow’s efforts to adapt drones beyond their traditional strike role.
Ukraine adapts response
As Russia upgrades its systems, Ukraine is developing new countermeasures. Alongside Western-supplied air defences, Kyiv has accelerated production of interceptor drones designed to target incoming Shahed-type attacks.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said that in just over a week Russian forces launched nearly 1,100 strike drones, along with hundreds of guided aerial bombs and dozens of missiles, highlighting the scale of the aerial campaign.
Ukraine’s intelligence says continued adaptation on both sides is shaping the evolving battlefield in the skies.
Sources: Kyiv Independent
