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Ukrainian Magura V7 Drones Used AIM-9X Missiles to Destroy Russian Su-30 Jet

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Amira Barkhush
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Ukrainian Magura V7 Drones Used AIM-9X Missiles to Destroy Russian Su-30 Jet
The Magura V7 naval drone in the hall during the presentation on May 15, 2025, in Ukraine. (Source: Getty Images)

Ukrainian multi-purpose naval drones Magura V7 have downed Russian Su-30 fighter jets using the latest version of the AIM-9 missile, according to Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR), in an interview with The War Zone, published on June 10.

Previously, it was believed that the drones were equipped with AIM-9M missiles—a variant from the late 1980s. However, Budanov revealed that the Magura V7s are armed with a much more advanced weapon— the AIM-9X.

The AIM-9X is a state-of-the-art infrared-guided missile in the Sidewinder family, and was adopted by the US military in 2003. It represents a significant upgrade over previous versions of the AIM-9, offering enhanced capabilities for both air-to-air and surface-to-air engagements.

This missile comes in two variants. Block 1 was the initial version, while Block 2, which entered service later, offers enhancements like better integration with advanced aircraft, GPS-assisted targeting, and improved communications capabilities.

Key improvements include the new MK-139 engine, which has increased the missile’s maximum range to 30 kilometers and boosted its speed. The upgraded LOAL (Lock-On After Launch) system enables effective missile deployment via the Link 16 communications network.

Additionally, the infrared seeker in the new version has been replaced with an infrared camera, improving target acquisition and tracking accuracy while reducing vulnerability to thermal interference from the enemy. The missile is also equipped with a radio receiver, enabling radio correction during long-range engagements.

“The AIM-9x missile demonstrated better characteristics than the R-73, despite the fact that they have similar technical characteristics,” Budanov said, explaining why the AIM-9X is preferred over the R-73.

On May 3, HUR confirmed the destruction of a Russian Su-30 fighter jet by a Magura sea drone, marking the first recorded instance of a military aircraft being eliminated by a maritime drone system.

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