The Russian attack drone "Garpia" has received a new onboard rangefinder designed to calculate the distance to the target before remote detonation of the warhead. This solution should increase the effectiveness of hitting targets for which air detonation is most effective, including radar stations and other electronic equipment.
The new device is installed directly on board the drone and determines the moment when the warhead needs to be detonated at an optimal distance from the target.
Unlike contact detonation, remote detonation allows for an increased engagement zone and a higher probability of disabling sensitive equipment components.
Official technical specifications of the rangefinder, its type, operating principle, and the timing of the start of serial equipping of drones are not yet disclosed.
The "Garpia" attack drone was first publicly shown at a parade in Moscow on May 9, 2025. The new loitering munition was created as a development of the "Geran" with a focus on overcoming modern electronic warfare systems: the device features a more powerful warhead, a range of over 1000 km, and an intelligent guidance system.