Ukraine Has Revealed a New Domestic Drone Resembling the Iranian Shahed-136—Here’s What We Know

During German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit to Ukraine, a domestic Ukrainian drone was unveiled, drawing comparisons to the Iranian Shahed-136 drone. However, the Ukrainian model differs significantly from its Iranian counterpart in several key aspects.

According to reports from Defense Express, the showcased drone follows a similar aerodynamic design to the Shahed-136, featuring a flying-wing shape and vertical stabilizers at the wing tips. Despite these similarities, it is unlikely that the Ukrainian drone matches the long-range capabilities of the Shahed-136.

The Ukrainian drone, estimated to have a wingspan and length of approximately 1.5 meters, is notably smaller than the Shahed-136, which measures 3.75 meters in length and 2.5 meters in wingspan. Additionally, the Ukrainian drone is powered by an electric motor, which limits its flight range compared to the Shahed-136's internal combustion engine.

While the Shahed-136 is known for its longer range and larger payload, the Ukrainian drone appears to serve a different purpose. It is likely designed as a loitering munition, intended for targeting enemy assets within closer range, such as armored vehicles and artillery, at distances up to 50-100 kilometers.

The drone’s features, including antennas and a potential camera housed in the nose, suggest it is equipped for surveillance and precision targeting in near-rear areas of the enemy.

The Ukrainian Office of the President confirmed that the drone, as well as others on display, were developed domestically and in collaboration with German companies. The collaboration aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities through international partnerships.

It is also noteworthy that the Iranian Shahed-136, and its variants such as the recently unveiled Shahed-238, trace their origins back to the Israeli Harpy drone, which was based on German Dornier’s Die Drohne Antiradar (DAR) designed for destroying radar systems. This background underscores the global connections influencing the development of loitering munitions.

Earlier, Ukraine’s long-range AN-196 Liutyi drone, also known as the “Ukrainian Shahed,” underwent a significant upgrade, now carrying a 75-kilogram warhead—50% heavier than its previous payload. This enhanced version successfully struck the Saratov Oil Refinery, covering over 600 kilometers.