06:00 15-01-2026

Geran-2 Drones Gain Infrared Lights and Air-to-Air Arms

Khamenei.ir, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Russian Geran-2 kamikaze drones are seen with infrared lights and air-to-air missiles, suggesting new tactics against helicopters and interceptor drones.

Russian Geran-2 kamikaze drones appear to have received a noticeable upgrade. Attention was drawn to the change by the authors of the Telegram channel Povernutye na voyne, who published footage showing an unusual new feature on the drone’s airframe.

The video shows a Geran-2 being trailed by a Ukrainian helicopter. What stands out is the rear section of the drone, where blinking light sources are clearly visible. According to the observers, these are likely a pair of infrared spotlights mounted at the tail. There has been no official explanation so far regarding the purpose of these elements.

Online discussions have produced several theories. One assumption is that infrared illumination could be used to interfere with the optics of enemy air-defense drones and helicopters. Another version suggests that the spotlights support an onboard system designed to evade interceptor drones, particularly during nighttime operations.

This development comes amid broader changes in how Geran drones are being used. Russian forces have increasingly deployed versions armed with air-to-air missiles, a fact acknowledged by the Ukrainian side as well. Ukrainian Armed Forces communications and drone specialist Sergey Beskrestnov, known by the call sign «Flash," reported this on his Telegram channel, where he shared images of drone wreckage carrying an R-60 missile. The missile’s stated range reaches up to 10 kilometers.

Taken together, these details point to an ongoing adaptation of the Geran platform, with new components and roles emerging as its use on the battlefield evolves.