Defence publisher: Russian Lancet strike system — 21st-century weapon

Russian drones and loitering munitions are among the best in the world, according to Mike de Villiers, editor-in-chief and publisher of Ultimate Defence and Global Aviator magazines.

Speaking to Russia’s state-run TASS news agency on the sidelines of the Africa Aerospace and Defence 2026 exhibition in South Africa, de Villiers highlighted Russia’s Lancet loitering munition and other unmanned systems.

“Without a doubt, the Russian ‘Lancet’ strike system can rightly be called a 21st-century weapon. These systems are very popular worldwide and demonstrate high effectiveness. I believe that the drones and loitering munitions currently being developed and manufactured by Russia are rightfully among the best in the world. Moreover, Russian drones are getting better and better over time,” he said.

Russia is displaying several reconnaissance and strike unmanned systems at the exhibition as part of the joint Rosoboronexport exhibition. The systems include the Lancet-E, Skat-350M, Kub-2E, Orlan-10E and Orlan-30.

The Africa Aerospace and Defence 2026 exhibition is being held from September 16 to 20 at Waterkloof Centurion Air Force Base in Pretoria.

By Sabina Mammadli