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Ukraine Records First Confirmed Kill With Drone-Mounted Grenade Launcher

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Ukraine Records First Confirmed Kill With Drone-Mounted Grenade Launcher
Ukrainian Queen Hornet Drone Equipped With Bulspike-AP Grenade Launcher During Field Test. (Source: ArmyInform)

Ukraine has carried out the first documented strike against a Russian soldier using a grenade launcher mounted on the Queen Hornet FPV drone—marking a new milestone in the integration of multi-role drones into the country’s defense strategy, according to Wild Hornets on May 13.

Earlier, Ukrainian developers successfully tested a reusable FPV drone equipped with a Bulgarian-made anti-personnel grenade launcher, expanding the tactical applications of frontline UAVs.

The Queen Hornet is a 15-inch multi-role UAV developed in Ukraine. It can carry up to 9.5 kilograms over 5 kilometers or lighter payloads of 6 kilograms over distances up to 17 kilometers.

Its modular design enables simultaneous deployment of two 4-kilogram grenade launchers, allowing for repeated use in various combat configurations.

The platform has already been adapted for roles including bomber, loitering munition, logistics drone, signal relay, and drone carrier. According to Wild Hornets, more than 100 Queen Hornets are active on the front lines, with monthly production continuing to expand.

The Bulspike-AP launcher used in testing fires an OG-22M high-explosive fragmentation grenade designed to target enemy personnel in trenches, open terrain, or light cover, as well as unarmored vehicles.

Bulgarian Bulspike-AP Anti-Personnel Grenade Launcher Used on Queen Hornet Drone.
Bulgarian Bulspike-AP Anti-Personnel Grenade Launcher Used on Queen Hornet Drone.

The 2-kilogram grenade disperses over a thousand fragments upon detonation, with an effective direct-fire range of approximately 100 meters. The Queen Hornet drone is reportedly composed of 65% Ukrainian-made components, including custom electronics developed during wartime.

Earlier, Ukraine’s Main Intelligence Directorate unveiled new marine drone carriers used in strike operations against Russian targets in Crimea, including vessels capable of launching FPV and aircraft-type drones.

According to footage from the documentary “Naval Combat: The Drone Era,” these unmanned platforms feature NATO-style AI, Starlink connectivity, and augmented reality controls, enabling long-range precision strikes on both ground and sea targets.

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