Russia Tests Molniya Strike Drones as “Flying Couriers” for Carrying Weapons and Food to Frontline

Russian forces have begun experimenting with Molniya drones as a means of transporting weapons and supplies to frontline positions, according to footage released by the Sunstrike unmanned systems unit of Ukraine’s 82nd Separate Air Assault Brigade.

The footage published by the Ukrainian unit shows several configurations of the Russian drone carrying different types of cargo. In one instance, a rifle is attached to the aircraft, while another drone is shown carrying a package of supplies.

According to Ukrainian defense outlet Militarnyi, the modifications suggest Russian forces are testing ways to expand the Molniya’s role beyond its primary use as a strike drone, potentially turning the platform into a lightweight logistics system capable of delivering supplies to troops on the battlefield.

Such a configuration could allow Russian troops to transport small loads to frontline positions without relying on personnel or conventional vehicles for the final stage of delivery.

However, there is currently no evidence that the use of Molniya drones for logistics has become a standard practice or is being employed on a large scale by Russian forces, Militarnyi noted.

The Molniya is a relatively basic Russian fixed-wing attack drone primarily used to deliver explosive payloads. It has a range of around 30 to 40 kilometers and can carry a warhead weighing up to seven kilograms. Modified versions of the drone have also been employed for reconnaissance and artillery fire correction.

Read more

Category

Defense Tech

Russia’s Cheap Molniya Drone Is Learning to Strike Without Being Steered

Jul 03, 2026 15:48

The apparent experimentation with the Molniya comes as Russia continues to develop drones for operations against Ukrainian logistics. Trident Group CEO Yurii Humenchuk told RBC-Ukraine in an interview published on July 13 that Russia was working on a new category of medium-range strike drones intended to target Ukrainian supply routes.

According to Humenchuk, Russia is seeking a platform that would bridge the gap between relatively inexpensive Molniya drones and the larger, heavier Shahed-type attack UAVs.

On the Frontline of Truth

Our reporters work on the frontlines to show what’s really happening in Ukraine. Your support helps them keep reporting.

SUPPORT