(Kyiv) – Ukrainian forces struck a Russian “Tor” air defense system using a Switchblade 600 drone in a precision attack that highlights the effectiveness of loitering munitions in modern warfare. The operation was carried out by operators from Ukraine’s 14th Separate Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Regiment.
The regiment reported that the “Tor” system was attempting to change positions when it was targeted. A Ukrainian reconnaissance drone had been monitoring the Russian surface-to-air missile system, ensuring accurate tracking before the strike. Once the target was identified, the operators deployed a Switchblade 600, an advanced loitering munition provided by the United States.
The Switchblade 600 drone is a high-precision weapon capable of staying airborne for up to 40 minutes and covering a range of 40 kilometers. It can loiter over a target area before striking at speeds of up to 185 km/h. The drone carries a powerful warhead designed to destroy heavy armored vehicles, including tanks, and is launched from a portable tube system, allowing rapid deployment from nearly any location.
Equipped with a touchscreen-based control system, the Switchblade 600 offers manual or autonomous flight options. Its encrypted communication channels protect against electronic interception, making it a formidable tool in the field. This latest strike underscores the effectiveness of integrating advanced Western military technology into Ukraine’s defense strategy.
As part of ongoing U.S. military aid, the Department of Defense signed a $17.8 million contract in 2022 for the production and delivery of Switchblade drones to Ukraine.
Specifications of the Switchblade 600 Drone
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Loitering Time | Up to 40 minutes |
Range | 40 kilometers |
Maximum Speed | 185 km/h |
Warhead Capability | Destroys heavy armored vehicles |
Launch System | Tube-based, portable |
Control System | Touchscreen tablet |
Flight Modes | Manual and autonomous |
Electronic Protection | Encrypted communication channels |
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