Russia Unveils “Klin”: AI-Enabled Attack Drone With Autonomous Targeting

A new Russian loitering munition dubbed the “Klin” has been unveiled, reportedly capable of remaining on station for around 80 minutes and autonomously locating and striking targets at ranges up to 120 km, the Telegram channel “Soniashnyk” reported on October 12.

The Shahed-style suicide drone was shown at a recent exhibition, where developers demonstrated two modes of operation: long-endurance patrol—effectively an “aerial minefield” that loiters over an area—and autonomous target search-and-engage missions at extended range. According to the channel, the platform is fitted with an air-burst fuze and can carry either a shaped (cumulative) or high-explosive warhead.

According to Soniashnyk, Klin loitering munition features a take-off weight of 13.5 kilograms and carries a 5-kilogram warhead. The drone has an operational range of up to 120 kilometers, which can be extended with relay support, and can remain airborne on station for approximately 80 minutes.

Its flight and attack speeds range between 108 and 300 kilometers per hour. The airframe measures around 1.6 meters in length with a wingspan of 1.92 meters, and it can operate at altitudes up to 2,000 meters. The munition is designed to carry either a cumulative or high-explosive warhead and is equipped with an air-burst detonation system.

According to Militarnyi, several components of the drone appear to have been produced using additive manufacturing techniques, including the optical module, which was likely fabricated with 3D printing technology.

The drone employs an aerodynamic configuration reminiscent of the Shahed series, featuring a tailless delta-wing design. At the same time, it incorporates elements characteristic of a canard layout, including forward-mounted horizontal control surfaces.

Earlier, it was reported that Russia’s state-owned United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) is preparing the first modernized Yak-130M trainer aircraft for flight testing,

The upgraded jet is being developed amid Moscow’s efforts to bolster defenses against Ukraine’s increasingly effective long-range drone strikes within Russian territory.

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