Russian kamikaze drones known as “Lancet,” produced by ZALA Aero Group, a subsidiary of the Kalashnikov Concern, are posing a danger to Ukrainian military personnel and equipment, according to Kyiv Independent. Since the end of 2022, when these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) started being used extensively on the battlefield, the Lancet has gained a reputation as Russia’s most effective weapon against high-value targets located tens of kilometers beyond the front line.
The destruction caused by these drones, as documented in open sources, is a grim reality for Ukraine’s supporters. Tanks like Leopard, various Western howitzers, launchers, and much more have fallen victim to these UAVs. “Even when our equipment is concealed in bushes, the drone spots its silhouette from afar and dives straight towards it like a falcon,” said an air defense specialist from the 47th Ukrainian Mechanized Brigade.
With no apparent countermeasures against the Lancet, the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) have attempted to protect their targets using a mixed set of measures. However, due to the small physical size and low thermal visibility of these drones, they are extremely difficult to detect with traditional air defense radars. Additionally, their low cost makes using guided anti-aircraft missiles against them impractical, emphasized the publication.
It was previously reported that in 2024, new domestically-produced drones will be demonstrated by Rostec. The commander of the UAF has previously stated that Russia has an advantage in using FPV drones.
