As reported by TASS on January 22, 2025, Russia has developed the Kasatka drone system, a signal relay platform with capabilities for reconnaissance and offensive operations. Operating at altitudes between one and two kilometers, the drone transmits direct radio signals over a range of up to 50 kilometers, facilitating control of kamikaze quadcopters such as the Tribunal drone. Additionally, the Kasatka is equipped with reflectors designed to imitate the radar signatures of larger drones like the Geran or Orion, serving as a decoy to redirect enemy air defenses.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link
The Kasatka (also known as Killer Whale) is a multifunctional system primarily intended for signal relay, which could also carry a payload of up to 3 kilograms of explosives, enabling it to function as a kamikaze drone. (Picture source: TASS)
Nikolay Zhernov, CEO of the Novosibirsk-based Aerofregat company, stated that the Kasatka (also known as Killer Whale) is a multifunctional system primarily intended for signal relay. It can also carry a payload of up to 3 kilograms of explosives, enabling it to function as a kamikaze drone. In this configuration, it has a range of 70 kilometers and can remain airborne for 40 minutes to one hour. The Tribunal drone, developed in the same region, has an operational range of over 10 kilometers. Both systems are supported by the People’s Front’s Kulibin Club, which identifies and promotes domestic engineering projects for serial production. This initiative has also supported the deployment of electronic warfare tools that target enemy drones, quadcopters, self-propelled robotic systems, and similar technologies.
The Kasatka has a role similar to the ADM-160 Miniature Air-Launched Decoy (MALD) developed by the United States, which is an air-launched, expendable decoy missile designed to mimic the radar signatures of various aircraft, thereby confusing enemy air defenses. Similarly, Russia has developed decoy drones, such as the Gerbera and Parody UAVs, which are designed to mimic other drone systems. Decoy drones like these are utilized in military operations to mislead adversary air defense systems. By simulating the radar cross-sections of actual aircraft or drones, they cause adversaries to engage these false targets, thereby preserving more valuable assets. Additionally, decoy drones can be equipped with electronic warfare systems to disrupt enemy radar, communications, and navigation, further complicating the adversary’s targeting process.
The Shahed-136, developed in Iran and referred to as Geran-2 in Russian service, has influenced the design and production of loitering munitions worldwide. With a range of 2,500 kilometers and a 90 kg warhead, it is designed for long-range strikes. Variants like the Shahed-131, with a 900-kilometer range and 15 kg warhead, offer reduced capabilities but share similar design principles. Countries such as Belarus, which manufactures the Nomad drone, and Israel, which produces the Delta-wing RS2 for training purposes, have adopted and localized the Shahed design. China has developed the DFX-50 and DFX-100 loitering munitions, featuring payload capacities of 5 kg and 50 kg, respectively, with operational ranges exceeding 100 kilometers and 1,000 kilometers. These systems aim to deliver cost-effective capabilities for reconnaissance and precision strikes.
Loitering munitions, including Shahed-type drones, are designed to provide extended operational capabilities, combining real-time reconnaissance and the ability to strike stationary and moving targets. Their relatively simple designs and modular payload systems enable cost-effective mass production and widespread deployment. These systems are further adapted for flexible operations through integration with mobile platforms, such as the FAW MV3 chassis for China’s ASN-301 and Russia’s Ural 6×6 for the KUB-SM. This integration allows for rapid deployment and use in varied operational settings. The adaptability and efficiency of loitering munitions make them a key component in modern military applications, supporting precision strikes and reconnaissance missions.
