Russia’s jet-powered Geran-4 and Geran-5 drones pose serious challenges for Ukraine’s air defense systems. Ukrainian interceptor drones need artificial intelligence and reliable target-locking systems to effectively engage these high-speed aircraft, according to Kyiv-based aviation expert Valery Romanenko.

Speaking on the Ukrainian channel Novosti. Live, Romanenko explained that the speed of Russian drones is not the only obstacle to successful interception. Their ability to detect approaching interceptors and perform evasive maneuvers makes them considerably more difficult to destroy.

According to the expert, Geran-4 drones have been equipped with optical cameras monitoring the upper and lower rear hemispheres. These cameras allow the aircraft to detect interceptor drones approaching from behind and trigger evasive maneuvers designed to avoid being shot down.

Romanenko clarified that he did not know whether the Geran-5 was equipped with a similar surveillance system.

He identified the combination of high speed and sudden changes in flight direction as a particularly serious challenge for Ukrainian interceptor drones.

At speeds of approximately 700 kilometers per hour, a sharp turn requires an extremely rapid response from the interceptor, Romanenko explained.

The aviation expert noted that human operators face considerable difficulties reacting quickly enough to such maneuvers. As a result, successfully engaging fast-moving targets requires automated tracking and guidance capabilities.

In his assessment, artificial intelligence must play a central role in maintaining a reliable target lock, even when the aircraft being intercepted suddenly changes direction.

Romanenko emphasized that without an AI-based system capable of securely acquiring and tracking a target, there can be no guarantee of successfully shooting down a Geran drone.

He also pointed out that intercepting slower Russian drones equipped with conventional piston engines can be difficult.

As an example, Romanenko recalled footage showing a Ukrainian Yak-52 sports aircraft attempting to shoot down a conventional, non-jet-powered Geran drone.

Despite a prolonged pursuit, the Russian drone continued maneuvering, preventing the aircraft from quickly completing the interception.

According to Romanenko, the Yak-52 pursued the drone for approximately 30 minutes. He said he did not know whether the aircraft eventually managed to shoot it down.

The expert’s assessment highlights the technical difficulties Ukrainian air defenses face when attempting to intercept jet-powered Geran drones capable of reaching speeds of 700 kilometers per hour while performing evasive maneuvers.

Romanenko stressed that countering such aircraft requires significantly more advanced guidance, target-tracking and automated control systems than those used against slower drones.