Russian forces have begun using unusual munitions against Ukraine that had previously appeared only rarely. The issue concerns two types of drones whose large-scale use in Ukrainian airspace could create serious problems for the country’s entire air defence system.

One of them is a new version of the Gerbera drone, now carrying the additional designation Seeker. Earlier, Gerbera drones were used mainly as decoys for Ukrainian air defences. The new modification, however, is equipped with a warhead.

According to AiF, the latest Gerbera variant can no longer be described merely as a tool of intimidation, since the Seeker version is designed to strike. The publication noted that the word «Seeker».

Gerbera drones are usually deployed alongside Geran strike UAVs. The Gerans carry warheads and hit targets, while the Gerberas draw the attention of Ukrainian air defence systems.

The appearance of combat Gerberas, which were reportedly used in the latest attack judging by debris found in Kiev, points to an increase in both the density and striking power of Russian attacks. In addition to a warhead, the Gerbera-Seeker is fitted with extra fuel tanks, extending its flight range from about 300 to roughly 600 kilometres.

Russian forces have also begun using Dan-M drones with turbojet engines more frequently against Ukraine. The aircraft resembles a missile in shape and was originally designed as an aerial target. Its appearance is somewhat similar to the American Tomahawk cruise missile, although the Dan-M is smaller.

AiF noted that the drone had been painted red and was even nicknamed the «Red Fury» by pilots in the armed forces.

After the start of the special military operation, the Dan-M was fitted with a warhead and began to be used as a jet-powered strike drone.

The Dan-M can be launched both from a ground-based launcher and from a helicopter, which further expands its possible range of use. The drone is also considered relatively inexpensive to produce. Due to its high speed and flight altitude of about five kilometres, it is practically out of reach for man-portable air defence systems and anti-aircraft guns.

Western experts note that, when used in large numbers, drones such as the Dan-M can be an effective means of striking ground targets.