Ukraine develops low-cost Grim LA-80 strike drone with 100 km range
Molniya (photo: Russian media)
Ukrainian company GrimTech is completing the development of the Grim LA-80 fixed-wing strike drone, which is structurally similar to Russia's Molniya-type drones. The drone was showcased at the MSPO 2026 defense exhibition in Kielce, Poland, according to Militarnyi.
What targets is the Grim LA-80 designed for?
The drone is designed to carry up to 5 kg of payload over a distance of up to 80 km, with keeping the aircraft's cost low being one of the developers' priorities.
The Grim LA-80 is primarily designed to strike stationary targets behind enemy lines, including fortifications, dugouts, revetments, and equipment that remains in one place for extended periods.
According to a GrimTech representative who spoke to Militarnyi, the flight range may vary depending on the payload weight. With a payload of around 2 kg, the aircraft could theoretically travel up to 100 km, but communication stability remains the main limitation. GrimTech says the focus is on a larger payload and greater flight range.
What will the drone's design and control system be like?
The company is considering a basic radio channel, digital video link, and Starlink for controlling the drone. The company considers satellite communication the preferred option, as it should provide more stable control over long distances.
Grim LA-80 (photo: Militarnyi)
The production version of the Grim LA-80 airframe is planned to be manufactured using vacuum forming, which should make it lighter, stronger, and better suited for rapid production. The wings will be made of foam, while aluminum tubes and plywood will also be used in the design.
The company does not manufacture warheads for the drone. They will be installed directly by the military. The payload bay will be adapted for different types of munitions, including those with a relatively large diameter. It will also allow the position of the munition to be adjusted to ensure the aircraft is properly balanced.
Grim LA-80 (photo: Militarnyi)
"We are refining and polishing the product to make sure it is high quality, and we are trying to produce a test batch of prototypes to send to the front for testing and field trials," GrimTech said.
The Grim LA-80 is currently in the final stage of development and has not yet been used in combat. GrimTech is preparing to produce a test batch of drones that will be handed over to the military for field trials.
At the same MSPO 2026 exhibition, Ukroboronprom unveiled for the first time a launcher for the Koral surface-to-air missile mounted on the chassis of a Czech Tatra truck. The missile is being considered as a means of intercepting aerial and ballistic targets.
