Russia is testing the Geran-5 with autonomous optical navigation
Russia may have begun deploying a new variant of the “Geran-5” jet-powered strike UAV, which is likely equipped with an optoelectronic navigation system. This system may allow the drone to navigate using images of the Earth’s surface and adjust its route without relying constantly on GPS.
The monitoring channel “Colonel GSh” reported on the new version, referred to as the “Geran-5 K5.” However, the “K5” designation and the assumption that it uses a DSMAC-class system have not been officially confirmed.
The principle of this navigation method involves comparing images of the terrain beneath the drone with pre-prepared reference data. This potentially allows the drone to continue flying even when satellite navigation is jammed.
Separately, Russian military correspondent Andrei Filatov stated that drones of the “Geran” family are already capable of using the “Susannin” autonomous optical navigation system. At the same time, there is no confirmation that this system is the same technology that could have been installed on the new “Geran-5.”
The new variant also features design changes. In particular, the turbojet engine has been moved from the external nacelle into the fuselage, which should reduce aerodynamic drag. According to available data, the drone can reach a cruising speed of 450–600 km/h and has a range of about 1,000 km.
At the same time, publicly available data does not yet allow for a precise assessment of the new system’s effectiveness or the specific flight phases in which it is used.
In Brovary, Kyiv Oblast, a fire broke out on the grounds of an industrial enterprise due to debris from a downed Russian drone. The fire occurred in the industrial zone. According to preliminary information, there were no casualties.
In the Solomyanskyi district of Kyiv, debris was reported to have fallen on an educational institution following a Russian attack. Information regarding the nature of the damage and possible casualties is being verified.
