Russian Military Developing Unmanned Surface Drones with 100 kg Cargo Capacity

Russian military experts are in the process of developing unmanned surface attack drones capable of carrying payloads ranging from 10 kg to a potential 100 kg.

A source within the military-industrial complex revealed this information to state-controlled TASS.

The initiative aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to the expensive NATO surface boats currently utilized by the Ukrainian Armed Forces. The Russian approach emphasizes affordability and the possibility of localizing production within the country, allowing for rapid scalability if required.

The surface drones, slated for official testing in February 2024, boast a maximum operating range of 20 km. Notably, they will be constructed from composite materials rather than carbon fiber to mitigate radar visibility.

"The surface drone will be able to carry up to 10 kg of payload, which can be extended to 100 kg depending on customer requirements," the source stated, emphasizing the adaptability of the drone to specific operational needs.