Ukrainian drone units have started deploying bomber drones equipped with laser-guided bombs, according to reports from Russian military bloggers. This development, part of the Brave1 military technology cluster, has been in progress for some time, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of Ukrainian drone bombers.
A recent incident saw a Ukrainian heavy multirotor drone intercepted by Russian forces, revealing a guided bomb with an optical guidance system. The bomb, marked BK-3OF, suggests potential serial production and features an optical guidance device and aerodynamic fins for precision targeting.
A downed Ukrainian UAV with a 125mm HE munition with laser guidance BK-3OF (seen for the first time).
The BK-3OF has laser guidance and aerodynamic control surfaces. pic.twitter.com/K8c2Om4rKT
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These Ukrainian drones, nicknamed “Baba Yaga” by Russian troops, can carry larger payloads and operate mainly at night to evade detection. Their ability to deploy both free-falling and guided munitions makes them highly effective in disrupting enemy logistics and targeting equipment and personnel from distances of 20-40 kilometers.
The new laser-guided bombs enhance the already formidable Baba Yaga drones, allowing them to strike from outside the range of existing defenses and increasing their threat to Russian forces. The drones’ integration of guided munitions represents a significant advancement in Ukraine’s unmanned aerial capabilities, potentially altering the dynamics on the battlefield.
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