The Sukhoi Design Bureau's development – the heavy strike drone S-70 "Okhotnik" – confirms that Russia has taken a big step in integrating advanced technologies and unmanned aerial vehicles. The new drone could become a formidable adversary in the air, but its mass production has been called into question due to Russia's problems with component procurement. This is according to The National Interest columnist Maya Carlin.
Features of the "Okhotnik" strike drone:
- AL-31 turbofan engine
- Speed – over 1000 kilometers per hour
- Flight range – almost 6000 kilometers
- Weight – almost 20 tons
- Likely capable of carrying the Kh-59 Mk2 cruise missile
- Ability to fly in conjunction with the Su-57
Mass production of the "Okhotnik" was expected to begin in the second half of 2024. According to The National Interest, Russian authorities have repeatedly stated that the S-70 will dominate the air.
Since the international community imposed tough sanctions against Russia, undermining its defense potential, the country has struggled to buy computer chips and other components for military equipment. Russia has had to repurpose microchips from dishwashers and refrigerators. Moscow's ability to produce S-70 drones on schedule depends on whether it can cope with these restrictions. However, the early deployment of the "Okhotnik" seems unlikely.
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