A new stated speed has emerged for the Russian interceptor drone "Astra-PVO" - up to 350 km/h, although earlier developers reported the possibility of acceleration up to 560 km/h. The difference in characteristics was highlighted by the account of a representative of the unit where the device is already in use.
"Astra-PVO" is a quadcopter designed to intercept fast-moving aircraft-type drones. The device can destroy an aerial target in two ways: by direct collision or with the help of an installed warhead.
Earlier it was reported that the maximum speed of "Astra-PVO" reaches 560 km/h. It was also indicated that the device takes off vertically, after which it can switch to various flight modes, including high-speed attack. Now a unit representative has named a different maximum speed - up to 350 km/h.
However, based on the available data, it cannot be claimed that "Astra-PVO" has actually become slower. It is unknown whether this refers to a design change, a specific operating mode, or a clarification of characteristics. The difference between the two stated figures is significant, amounting to 210 km/h.
New details concern not only the interceptor's speed. According to the military, "Astra-PVO" is already operating using artificial intelligence. The operator guides the device to the area of the presumed appearance of an aerial target and sets the direction, after which the system independently performs further interception.
Automation is associated, among other things, with high flight speed. The military noted that when the device is moving, it is difficult for the operator to manually track the target in the final section. Therefore, autonomous system operation is used to complete the attack.
The drone was developed by masters of the repair company of the 20th Combined Arms Army of the "Zapad" group.