Ukraine exposes international components in Russian reconnaissance drone

Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) has released information on the foreign-made components used in Russia’s reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) Knyaz Veshchiy Oleg.

According to HUR, the drone is developed and manufactured by the Russian Scientific and Production Centre “Ushkuynik,” a company also engaged in the production of other unmanned systems, including FPV drones and interception platforms.

The intelligence agency states that the UAV incorporates parts sourced from China, Switzerland, and Taiwan, underscoring continued reliance on foreign technologies in Russian drone production.

The aircraft reportedly has a wingspan of 2.8 metres and a maximum takeoff weight of up to 11 kilograms. Its declared performance characteristics include a range of up to 45 kilometres, an endurance of up to 3.5 hours, a top speed of 130 km/h, and an operational ceiling of up to 3,000 metres.

HUR further reports that the drone is equipped with two cameras, including a Chinese-made IP camera and a gyrostabilized optical system featuring elements of artificial intelligence designed for real-time target detection and tracking.

The UAV’s flight control system is said to rely on controllers based on STMicroelectronics microcontrollers, manufactured in China and Taiwan, alongside components produced by CUAV Technology. To enhance resilience against electronic warfare, the system is fitted with a four-channel CRP antenna. Propulsion is provided by electric motors manufactured by China’s SunnySky.

According to HUR, the producer is currently sanctioned only by Ukraine, the European Union, and Switzerland. The absence of broader restrictions among other members of the sanctions coalition, the agency notes, enables Russia to continue accessing foreign technologies through intermediary supply chains.

HUR warned that Russia continues to advance domestic weapons systems while maintaining access to foreign-made components through complex procurement networks. It added that such technologies could be used not only in the war against Ukraine but also to destabilize security environments in other regions, including countries allied with Russia such as Iran and North Korea.

By Vafa Guliyeva