Kyiv: Ukraine’s military has effectively neutralized several Russian drones, including the Orlan and Zala models, which have been prevalent on the battlefield. However, the emergence of the more sophisticated Orion drone has introduced a new challenge, testing the limits of Ukraine’s current air defense systems and significantly raising the stakes in drone warfare.
Challenging to Counter
Russian forces have deployed the Orion drone, which has proven exceptionally challenging for Ukrainian defense systems to counter. With drones playing an increasingly crucial role in the ongoing conflict, both sides are relying heavily on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance and strikes, as reported by WP.
While Ukrainian forces have adapted some of their drones by attaching incendiary materials like thermite to transform them into airborne flamethrowers, the Orion’s advanced capabilities allow it to operate beyond the reach of Ukraine’s current air defense systems. This gives Russia a significant advantage on the front lines.
Continuous 24-Hour Surveillance
Military analyst Aleksandr Kovalenko highlighted the Orion’s ability to conduct continuous reconnaissance and patrol operations over the Black Sea, particularly targeting the Mykolaiv and Odesa regions. The drone’s extended range, operating as far as 180 kilometers (111 miles) from Ukraine’s coastline, makes it nearly impossible for Ukrainian forces to engage effectively.
Flying at altitudes of up to 8 kilometers (5 miles), the Orion drones remain out of reach for many of Ukraine’s current anti-drone systems. This high operational altitude, combined with its long-range capabilities, poses a significant challenge to Ukrainian defenses.
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Orion Drone: Technical Capabilities
The Orion, first flown in October 2016, is powered by a 114-horsepower Turbax engine. It boasts a wingspan of 16.2 meters (53 feet), a length of 8 meters (26 feet), and a height of just over 3 meters (10 feet). With a maximum takeoff weight of 1,100 kilograms (2,425 pounds), the drone can carry up to 450 kilograms (990 pounds) of armaments.
Capable of reaching speeds up to 250 kilometers per hour (155 mph), the Orion’s ability to remain airborne for up to 24 hours makes it a versatile and effective tool for both reconnaissance and combat operations in the ongoing conflict.
