According to local reports, Russia has begun production of its new Tyuvik attack drone, drawing on experience gained in Ukraine and following the design line of the Geran drone family used in combat. This new unit is said to be smaller in size compared to the aforementioned unmanned platforms and is distinguished by its advanced electronic warfare systems, which would complicate its interception by enemy anti-drone defenses.
Delving into some details, it is reported that the new UAV features an external design closely resembling the longer-range Geranium systems, most notably its aerodynamic “flying wing” shape, earning it the unofficial nickname “mini-Geranium.” Additionally, the system was reportedly tested in the SVO zone (the term used in Russia for the ongoing invasion of Ukraine) before receiving the green light for mass production. The manufacturer has described it as an effective system for neutralizing enemy armored vehicles.
Continuing with its specifications, the Tyuvik drone is said to be capable of reaching a maximum range of 30 kilometers, with estimated top speeds of up to 180 kilometers per hour. In terms of payload, reports indicate each unit is equipped with a warhead of approximately 2 kilograms, placing it in a similar destructive category to a projectile fired by an RPG-7. The units are also equipped with the Pozemka electronic warfare system, designed to resist countermeasures, and have the ability to navigate autonomously without the need for constant operator control.
Furthermore, it has been reported that Moscow is working on a new design that would allow these drones to be used as interceptors against enemy UAVs, as well as to enable launches from compact containers instead of the current rail system. As stated by Andrei Bezrukov, director of the Center for Unmanned Systems and Technologies (CUST): “Stratim’s Tyuvik is one of the most promising developments. The next stage is to intercept enemy drones and launch them from compact drone ports.”
It is worth noting that this news comes as Russia prepares to establish a new branch of its Armed Forces dedicated to drone operations, which is expected to be operational by the third quarter of the current year according to official announcements. The decision reflects the evident rise in drone usage on modern battlefields — a trend confirmed by Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov, who stated that Russian forces are now deploying more than 3,500 drones per day, with the number continuing to grow.
*Images used for illustrative purposes only
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