Click to see full-size image. Via Telegram.
A Russian FPV interceptor drone has successfully shot down a Ukrainian RAM-2X loitering munition in the first publicly confirmed interception of this type.
Video footage showing the interception, which reportedly took place over the Russian region of Kursk, was posted to social networks on July 6.
The RAM-2X appears to be a copy of Russia’s very successful Lancet loitering munition, which features x-shaped wing design.
The technical specifications of the Ukrainian loitering munition are yet to be disclosed, but some reports suggest the munition has a range of up to 100-120 kilometers and a maximum speed of around 160-180 kilometers per hour. It is also believed to carry an explosively formed penetrator warhead weighing around three kilograms.
The RAM-2X’s guidance system appears to be built around an electro-optical seeker, just like the Lancet. It is unclear, however, if it has the ability to automatically identify and track targets, including moving ones, like the Russian loitering munition.
The wreckage of several RAM-2Xs were spotted in different parts of the special military operation zone in the last few months, but the latest footage is the first evidence of the loitering munition getting shot down.
The Russian military expanded the use of FPV interceptor drones in recent months. It is unclear what type was used to take down the RAM-2X, but all models very much operate in the same way.
The drone first flies towards the pre-set coordinates of its target, which is typically detected using a ground-based radar or an electro-optical system. As the target moves, the interceptor could receive updates on its location via a data-link.
While making the final approach, the operator takes control of the interceptor and utilizes its first person view camera to guide it towards the target. While some models carry a warhead that is usually detonated by the operator as close as possible to the target, others rely on kinetic energy, meaning they simply ram into the target to take it down in what is known as hit-to-kill method.
FPV interceptor drones are a much cheaper alternative to anti-aircraft missiles, which are also more complex to manufacture and operate.
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