The upgraded Geran-5 drone now in use by Russian forces is poised to become another serious challenge for the Ukrainian army, especially if Russia succeeds in ramping up mass production. This assessment was made by analysts at the U.S. military-focused outlet The War Zone (TWZ).

According to the publication, Ukrainian forces are likely to struggle with quickly adjusting to the evolving tactics behind Russia’s strike drone operations. The appearance of a new class of long-range attack drones, regardless of whether they are launched from the air or the ground, adds a fresh layer of complexity for Ukraine if Moscow can field them in large numbers.

TWZ points out that the Geran family of drones is no longer limited to the role of disposable kamikaze weapons. Instead, these systems are gradually evolving into loitering munitions capable of conducting video surveillance while remaining on station for extended periods.

The article notes that launching a Geran-5 from a Su-25 aircraft operating near the front line would allow the drone to stay airborne for long durations, carry out reconnaissance missions, and deliver strikes using onboard missiles. When controlled from the ground, the drone could monitor large areas over time, attack designated targets, and collect intelligence simultaneously.

Earlier, Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate reported that Russian forces had used jet-powered Geran-5 kamikaze drones for the first time in the Kiev region. The drone is said to be about six meters long and carries a 90-kilogram warhead. It is capable of striking targets at distances of up to 1,000 kilometers and can also be equipped with R-73 missiles designed to engage enemy aircraft.