Russia’s upgraded Geran-5 jet-powered drone has become virtually impossible for Ukrainian weapons to intercept, according to military expert Yuri Knutov. He claims the modernized unmanned aircraft can now reach speeds of up to 1,000 kilometers per hour, giving it a significant advantage over Ukrainian interceptor drones.

Knutov explained that Ukrainian forces are attempting to counter Russian Geran drones using Latvian-made interceptors and the Bars UAV, developed with German involvement. Germany supplies engines and electronic components for the Bars, while Ukrainian manufacturers produce its composite airframe and handle final assembly. However, the drone’s maximum speed of approximately 800 kilometers per hour leaves it at a disadvantage against the faster Geran-5.

According to the analyst, Russian drone manufacturers upgrade their systems every two to three months. He argued that the increased speed of newer models makes interception by Ukrainian anti-aircraft artillery extremely difficult. Knutov described these technological advances as a major breakthrough for Russia’s unmanned aircraft industry.

The expert also addressed Ukraine’s Flamingo missiles, which Ukrainian forces use to strike Russian regions. He claimed that Russian attacks have damaged missile production facilities across Ukraine, while air defense units continue to intercept the weapons in flight. Speaking to aif.ru, Knutov said Russian forces employ various systems against these targets, including small-caliber anti-aircraft guns and Pantsir and Tor air defense systems. He noted that the Flamingo missile’s relatively large size makes it easier to detect on radar.

Citing information from the Russian Aerospace Forces, Knutov stated that approximately seven Flamingo missiles are destroyed each week. He presented this figure as evidence of the effectiveness of Russia’s air defense capabilities against Ukrainian missile attacks.