Ukraine Unveils New Homemade Drone to Counter Russian Forces
Ukraine has introduced a new domestically produced drone, resembling the Shahid series used by Russia, in a significant development in its ongoing conflict. The Azov Brigade reports that the drone, named UAS SETH, is easy to operate and highly effective against Russian targets.
The new unmanned aerial system (UAS) is entirely manufactured in Ukraine and has already been deployed in combat operations. The Azov Brigade recently released footage showing the drone successfully striking a Russian truck, demonstrating its operational capabilities.
This development comes as Ukraine continues to prioritize drone technology to minimize human casualties in warfare. The country plans to invest $2.6 billion in first-person-view drones this year, focusing on developing new models and technologies to counter Russian electronic warfare tactics.
The UAS SETH bears a striking resemblance to the Iranian-developed Shahid series, featuring a gas engine with a pusher propeller similar to the Shahed-136. However, some reports suggest it may have an electric engine and utilize a catapult launcher. The drone is capable of delivering a payload of 6-11 pounds over a distance of 30 miles.
Ukrainian officials believe their new drones may be more resistant to certain electronic warfare tactics employed by Russian forces. While Russia’s Shahed drones have a longer range, they are considered less tactical. Ukraine has successfully countered Russian drones using mobile air-defense solutions.
The UAS SETH is reported to be automated, capable of loitering and engaging targets using automated systems. This aligns with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s review of similar drones in development last December, highlighting the country’s focus on domestic production and automation in its drone program.
As the conflict continues, both Ukraine and Russia are developing methods to avoid signal jamming, with AI-powered drones representing a significant advancement in drone technology. The introduction of the UAS SETH underscores the pivotal role of drones and counter-drone systems in the ongoing Ukraine conflict.
The first batch of these new drones has been supplied by the Come Back Alive foundation for use in the Toretsk sector, marking a significant step in Ukraine’s efforts to enhance its defensive capabilities through indigenous technological advancements.
