Russia turns Geran-5 drone into a mini cruise missile: Ukraine reveals new specs
Photo: Ukraine's Defense Intelligence reveals specifications of the latest Geran-5 modification (Russian media)
Ukraine's Defense Intelligence (GUR) has revealed the specifications and key manufacturers of components used in Russia's new Geran-5 modification, designated K5-K.
According to the agency, Russia began using a new modification of the Geran-5 UAV to attack Ukrainian cities in early fall this year. Based on its aerodynamic design and tactical and technical characteristics, it can now be classified as a small cruise missile.
Like its predecessor, the Geran-5 K5-K features a conventional aerodynamic configuration. Its straight-swept wing is mounted in a high-wing configuration, while the tail assembly consists of a single vertical fin with fixed stabilizers and a rudder.
The K5-K is shorter and has a smaller wingspan than the standard Geran-5. Russia has also worked to improve the aerodynamic characteristics of its fuselage to increase its speed and flight altitude.
Its maximum operating altitude has increased from 5 to 6 kilometers, while its cruising speed has risen to more than 450 km/h. During certain maneuvers, its top speed can reach 1,000 km/h. Its range (1,000 kilometers) and warhead weight (90 kilograms) remain unchanged.
The sample examined by GUR experts was fitted with a TBBC-90 thermobaric warhead.
Its avionics are identical to those found in the latest versions of another jet-powered UAV, the Geran-4 Seeker. These include a flight controller, a SADRA Seeker inertial navigation system with a MOX module, a localized copy of the 16-element Harxon GI-006 CRP antenna, a tracker, a mesh modem, and other components.
Photo: Specifications of the latest Geran-5 modification (Ukraine's Defense Intelligence )
The examined sample was also equipped with a new Susanin electro-optical correlation system, which GUR had previously identified in the Geran-4.
The system compares images from an optical sensor with a reference image stored in the onboard microcomputer's memory to ensure the missile follows its designated route from the launch point to the target.
In the examined K5-K model, the Susanin system used a dual-band camera instead of optical sensors.
The Susanin unit, which processes camera data and compares it with the reference image, is a Coke Pi microcomputer housed in a plastic casing with corresponding markings.
The drone is powered by a TRD-200 turbojet engine assembled in Alabuga using Chinese components. Of the 93 electronic components identified, the largest share came from manufacturers in the United States, China, and Switzerland.
As a reminder, Russian jet-powered drones can even reach western regions of Ukraine. Their flight range depends on their technical specifications, fuel capacity, and onboard equipment.
In addition, Ukraine's air defenses are gradually improving their effectiveness in intercepting Russian jet-powered drones. The current average interception rate for Geran-4 UAVs stands at nearly 60%.
