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Ukraine Unveils Advanced Combat Drones at IDEF 2025 in Istanbul
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![Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk]( "Photo of Cyril Barabaltchouk")
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At the IDEF 2025 defense exhibition in Istanbul, Turkey, two Ukrainian groundbreaking unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) were presented, each showing the advancements in drone technology for military and strategic purposes: the Cetus-X from an undisclosed manufacturer and Ukraine's Chaklun-B 2.0 [Eng. “Wizard” - ed.], developed by Spets Techno Export, as was reported by Army Recognition Group on July 25.
Cetus-X: A modular, multi-role combat drone
The Cetus-X is a NATO Class I(c) unmanned aerial vehicle designed for long-range strike missions. This catapult-launched drone is optimized for loitering munition roles, bomber operations, and as a carrier for FPV drones, according to Army Recognition Group.
Its ability to engage targets at distances between 70 and 120 kilometers gives it significant versatility on the battlefield, Army Recognition Group claimed.
Key specifications presented on IDEF 2025 defense exhibition of the Cetus-X include:
A maximum speed of 160 km/h and operational speeds of 120-150 km/h.
A maximum takeoff weight of 24.5 kg and payload capacities ranging from 8 kg to 10 kg depending on the variant.
A wingspan of 3.386 meters and a length of 1.55 meters.
Endurance of up to 150 minutes depending on the configuration.
Designed to operate in harsh temperatures ranging from -20 to +50°C.
The Cetus-X’s anti-jamming GNSS receiver and secure video transmission system enable it to operate effectively in contested airspaces, providing a powerful tool for precision strikes. In its loitering munition version, it detects and tracks targets automatically, while the bomber configuration releases guided ballistic payloads. The FPV drone carrier can carry up to four loitering drones for real-time, guided strikes, stated the Army Recognition Group in their research.
The Cetus-X offers a flexible tactical solution for diverse missions, and its modular design ensures scalability across various mission profiles.
Chaklun-B 2.0: Ukraine’s strategic response for long-range reconnaissance and resupply
Ukraine's Spets Techno Export also unveiled the Chaklun-B 2.0, a versatile and resilient UAV tailored to address the modern battlefield's demand for endurance and logistical flexibility. Primarily designed for transportation, reconnaissance, and ISR operations, the Chaklun-B 2.0 provides Ukraine with a cost-effective, long-range solution that operates with minimal infrastructure, Army Recognition Group said.
Notable features of the Chaklun-B 2.0:
A fixed-wing design with a 3.5-meter wingspan and a 3.9-meter fuselage.
Payload capacity between 20 and 35 kilograms.
Operational endurance of up to 8 hours with a guaranteed minimum range of 500 kilometers.
Catapult launch system and precise line-landing capability.
Ideal for resupply missions, ISR, and long-range reconnaissance, especially in contested areas.
The Chaklun-B 2.0 is a hybrid logistical and reconnaissance platform that bridges the gap between tactical UAV military drones and larger MALE UAVs. Its modular design allows it to perform both military and humanitarian roles, particularly in areas with limited infrastructure, reported by Army Recognition Group.
Its significant endurance and the ability to operate autonomously in hostile environments make it a critical asset for both military and recovery operations.
Strengthening Ukraine’s defense industry and expanding global partnerships
Both the Cetus-X and Chaklun-B 2.0 drones represent a broader global trend of increasing reliance on unmanned systems for diverse military roles, from reconnaissance to resupply and precision strike capabilities.
The inclusion of these platforms at IDEF 2025 not only shows the cutting-edge innovation being developed in response to modern warfare but also signals Ukraine’s growing domestic defense industrial base and its drive to enhance cooperation with NATO-aligned markets, particularly in partnership with Turkiye.
For both platforms, their presence at the exhibition shows their role in modern military operations, with each offering robust solutions for different aspects of contemporary warfare.
Earlier, it was reported that the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has authorized the supply of the domestically produced "Chaklun" [Eng. “Wizard” - ed.] drone, which is capable of correcting artillery fire.
