Russian Explosive Drone That Reached Vilnius Was Likely Launched From Belarus

The Russian drone that entered Lithuanian airspace in late July was likely launched from Belarus, Delfi reported on September 16.

Sources told the outlet that the drone, identified as a Gerbera model carrying around 2 kilograms of explosives, appeared to be part of a carefully planned operation.

The incident may have been intended not only to test Lithuania’s air defense capabilities but also to send a psychological signal, with the drone flying over the capital, Vilnius.

The drone’s flight altitude was reportedly chosen to avoid detection by radar. Upon recovery, investigators found that the device contained not only explosives but also a modern onboard computer and at least one SIM card.

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The drone was discovered on a training ground following its detection in Lithuanian airspace on July 28. It has been described as a Gerbera imitation drone, visually similar to the Shahed drones used in decoy operations to confuse air defense systems. Military personnel, investigators, and bomb disposal teams were dispatched to the site during the search operation.

On August 21, the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense announced that Lithuania had closed its airspace along the Belarusian border in response to rising drone threats. Temporary no-fly zones have been established to protect civilians and ensure airspace security. The restrictions will remain in effect until October 1 and could be extended if the risks persist.

Previously, it was reported that a coalition of military analysts and civil-society experts has proposed the Skyshield initiative, aiming to create a multinational air-defense zone over western Ukraine. This plan involves deploying approximately 120 allied combat aircraft to intercept Russian missiles and drones before they reach NATO airspace.

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