Drones from the Black Kite family equipped with an autonomous navigation system have entered service in the special military operation zone. The technology allows the aircraft to follow a pre-programmed route even after losing communications, telemetry and GPS signals entirely.

The manufacturer, Dronax, said the system had successfully completed testing. With the new equipment installed, the drones can deliver cargo to a designated location and then return to base without relying on control channels or satellite navigation.

This capability is particularly important in areas where electronic warfare systems are heavily employed and communications or navigation signals are deliberately suppressed. Autonomous flight is also useful in mountainous terrain and narrow ravines, where satellite reception can be unstable, as well as in forests and densely built-up urban areas.

Another Russian drone has previously demonstrated its ability to operate over a long and indirect route. A reconnaissance chief from the 51st Combined Arms Army of the Center group of forces, known by the call sign Apostol, said a Molniya drone covered about 120 kilometers before striking a Ukrainian military pickup truck.

According to the officer, the aircraft did not fly directly toward its target. Instead, it changed course to bypass areas covered by electronic warfare systems.