Russian Navy deploys advanced Forpost-R armed drones across fleets Photo

The Russian Navy has begun deploying Forpost-R unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) across its fleets, according to sources in the country’s Defence Ministry.

The new drones, capable of both reconnaissance and strike missions, have been integrated into the UAV units of the Northern Fleet, with deliveries to other naval fleets already underway, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

The Forpost-R is designed to operate around the clock and can engage moving targets using a range of onboard weaponry, including guided missiles and aerial bombs. Each system includes three UAVs, a command post and auxiliary equipment.

With a maximum take-off weight of 500kg, the drone is able to carry up to 100kg of munitions such as the KAB-20 precision-guided bomb and various missile types. The aircraft cruises at speeds between 120 and 180 km/h, has a flight endurance of up to 18 hours, and a range of approximately 250km. It can operate at altitudes of up to 6,000 metres.

Military analyst Dmitry Boltenkov said that the upgraded UAVs represent a significant development in Russia’s surveillance and strike capabilities.

“This modernised platform is a fully-fledged reconnaissance and combat drone. It is particularly well-suited for monitoring the vast, sparsely populated regions of the north and the Barents Sea. Once a target is identified, it can be engaged immediately using onboard munitions,” he said.

According to Boltenkov, the drones will also play a role in monitoring maritime borders and detecting unauthorised crossings or illegal fishing activity.

By Aghakazim Guliyev