Black Mirror #55

Copied! Russian drones are deploying more Elka interceptors to counter Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles, developing an air defence system capable of carrying up to 17 interceptors simultaneously, and unifying and standardising previous developments. About new products of the Russian military-industrial complex – in the weekly Defender Media review Black Mirror . Unified payloads from Rostec The Russian state defence corporation Rostec has announced the development of a dedicated line of warheads for various types of unmanned aerial vehicles. These drop-munitions are already being deployed as part of FPV drones, loitering munitions, multirotors, and strike platforms. The range includes high-explosive fragmentation and incendiary warheads. Several products feature a combined lethality effect, integrating high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), fragmentation, and blast actions. This versatility allows a single carrier type to perform diverse combat missions depending on the operational situation. “Podorozhnik” electromagnetic filters for drone electronics protection The Roselektronika holding has commenced testing of the “Podorozhnik” electromagnetic chip filters. These are designed to protect field electronics, radio stations, and onboard UAV systems from the effects of electromagnetic pulses. According to the technical description, the devices are installed directly on sensitive electronic components to mitigate the impact of pulse interference, which can cause overvoltage in power circuits. The “Podorozhnik” is engineered to operate in temperatures ranging from -60 to +125 °C and boasts an operational lifespan of up to 20,000 hours. Rostec claims creation of a swarm coordination system for strike drones Rostec has reported developing a “swarm” system to coordinate the group actions of strike UAVs based on the Supercam reconnaissance platform. According to the company, the modernised drones have received enhanced data transmission channels, allowing the aircraft to exchange information regarding detected targets within a unified network. The Russian Supercam UAV will be capable of creating a swarm During trials, the UAV groups operated in patrol mode, scanning designated sectors. Upon target detection, one drone transmitted coordinates to the other aircraft, and following operator confirmation, they executed a synchronised strike. The use of neural network elements for target recognition, task allocation, and battle damage assessment was also claimed. Chelnok UGV deployed to Kharkiv region The Chelnok UGV has been observed in the combat zone as a multi-purpose platform that combines the functions of an engineering vehicle and a logistical transport vehicle. Originally developed as a remote demining tool for clearing paths through minefields without a crew, its application has since expanded to cargo transport and auxiliary tasks in high-risk areas. The “Chelnok” heavy UGV in Kharkiv region According to available open-source data, the Chelnok is a heavy platform weighing approximately 1.3 tonnes, with a length of 3.8 m and a width of up to 2.5 m. Its stated ground speed is up to 50 km/h, with limited amphibious capabilities reaching 5 km/h on water. In its baseline configuration, the complex can be equipped with a demining charge capable of creating a breach in a minefield up to 6 m wide and 100 m long. While the Chelnok can tow heavy weaponry, including artillery systems, its significant dimensions complicate camouflage and increase vulnerability in open terrain. Ukrainian experts analyse North Korean KN-23 and KN-24 missiles During massed attacks on Ukrainian cities, Russian forces have repeatedly utilised North Korean KN-23 and KN-24 ballistic missiles. Specialists from the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine examined missile wreckage recovered after strikes and identified seven key similarities: from the number of bolt holes on the nozzle mount to specific recesses for satellite navigation receivers. A North Korean ballistic missile launched by Russia against Ukraine Analysis demonstrated that several parameters match technical drawings published in South Korean scientific sources. Experts note that while the missiles are not direct copies of Russian Iskander systems, they may be based on adapted technological solutions using lower-grade materials and civilian-grade components. The North Korean missiles utilise less energetic propellant; consequently, the North Korean engines are larger and longer (approximately 1.5 times) than their Russian counterparts to achieve a similar range. Civilian components from leading global brands were found in the guidance units. To ensure thermal resistance during atmospheric transit, a graphite fairing was installed on the nose section, along with a thermal protection coating. Rubikon releases target engagement statistics According to the LostArmour analytical system, the majority of targets engaged by Russian drone operator units are unmanned systems, UGVs, and communication or surveillance assets—accounting for over 50% of all strikes. Out of more than 24,000 documented episodes, only approximately 6.6% involve strikes against infantry positioned outside of cover. “Rubikon” releases target engagement statistics Use of Tele2 SIM cards in unmanned aerial vehicles According to reports from Ministry of Defence adviser Serhii Beskrestnov, Tele2 SIM cards are being used in Russian Shahed-type strike drones. It is noted that these cards can be utilised for data transmission and navigational communication. In border regions, the drones are capable of using roaming through foreign networks. Similar solutions are likely being employed in UAVs observed within European airspace. Arkhangel drone interception system declared a networked complex The Arkhangel monitoring and aerial target interception system has been presented in Russia, with developers claiming it can coordinate up to 17 interceptor drones simultaneously. The complex includes the Slonenok surveillance system and Arkhangel strike drones . The system detects targets using radar assets before transmitting coordinates to automated interceptors for guidance. The capability to monitor airspace within a 15 km radius is claimed. Elka interceptor drones integrated with radar Russia has tested integrating Elka interceptor drones with a radar station produced by the Umirs company. The system is implemented as a mobile complex mounted on a towed platform. Based on available data, the radar detects aerial targets, after which the data is transmitted to the interceptor drones for engagement. The complex is currently in the testing phase, and its effectiveness in operational conditions is still being evaluated.