On March 16, the Russian army launched an attack on central Kyiv using a "Lancet" drone, which had recently undergone significant upgrades.
This was reported by RBC-Ukraine, citing the Telegram channel of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine.
Modernization of the "Lancet"
According to the Main Intelligence Directorate, the remains of the drone shot down over Kyiv were identified as a "Lancet." This may indicate that the enemy has upgraded this UAV, which was previously designed to destroy equipment and firing positions at various ranges.
The "Lancet," or "Vyrib-51," is one of the most commonly used strike drones manufactured by the Zala Aero Group, which is affiliated with the Kalashnikov Concern.
Other similar drones
"Scalpel" is a lesser-known drone developed by the "Vostok" design bureau. Due to its X-shaped wing design, it is sometimes referred to as the "Lancet’s younger brother."
It is reported that both drones are guided by an operator in real time, but the developer is attempting to incorporate autonomous guidance elements into the "Lancet," specifically using artificial intelligence modules based on Nvidia Jetson.
Electronic components of the "Lancet"
As part of the update, 62 electronic components were identified that make up the "Lancet" and "Scalpel." Most of them are of foreign origin—primarily from the U.S., Switzerland, and China.
"The technologies currently being used against Ukraine pose a potential threat to other regions of the world. The dissemination of such information is intended to limit the aggressor’s access to modern technologies," the GUR added.
