The "Inokhodets" strike unmanned complex has received new weaponry: the aircraft has been equipped with anti-tank missiles and a previously unknown munition called "Banderol". The new configuration expands the capabilities of one of the largest Russian UAVs and allows for the use of a wider range of destruction means.

"Inokhodets" belongs to the class of MALE (Medium Altitude, Long Endurance) unmanned aerial vehicles. The aircraft was developed by "Kronstadt" company under the order of the Russian Ministry of Defence and is designed for long-duration reconnaissance, surveillance, and strikes against ground targets.

The export version of the complex is known as "Orion-E". According to the manufacturer, the drone has a take-off weight of over one ton, can carry up to 250 kg of payload, ascend to an altitude of over 7 km, and stay in the air for up to 24 hours with a typical combat load. When using a satellite communication channel, the control range is practically unlimited.

The capabilities of the complex continue to expand. Containers with new weapons have begun to be installed on the drone's wing pylons. The ammunition load includes X-UAV anti-tank guided missiles with a laser guidance system and a range of up to 10 km.

Particular interest was aroused by the new missile under the aircraft's fuselage, named "Banderol". Its main characteristics remain unknown, but it is reported to have high speed, the ability to fly at low altitude, and reduced visibility to detection systems.

Previously, "Inokhodets" was already used as a reconnaissance and strike complex, capable not only of observation but also of independently engaging targets using guided weapons. The development of a line of munitions for such aircraft allows for an increase in the number of available application scenarios – from pinpoint strikes to operations against remote targets.

In parallel, another large Russian drone, "Forpost-R", is also being developed. Initially created based on a foreign platform, it has received a domestic component base and its own variants of strike equipment. The aircraft is capable of using guided missiles and guided aerial bombs.

The appearance of new weaponry for "Inokhodets" shows the trend of large drones transitioning from the role of scouts to full-fledged strike platforms with an expanded set of high-precision weapons.

Read more on the topic: