A likely Russian Geran-4 jet drone crashes in Moldova — The National

A drone that likely was a Russian Geran-4 jet drone has crashed in Moldova. Its wreckage could give Western intelligence experts a rare opportunity to examine the technologies behind Russia’s increasingly sophisticated strike drones, The National reports.

What the wreckage could reveal

According to the outlet, the wreckage could help determine how Russia achieved speeds of up to 600 km/h for such drones — more than three times higher than those of the Shahed-136 drones initially supplied by Iran. Specialists may examine the onboard computer, navigation systems, processors, antennas, communications equipment and engine, including to assess the possibility of suppressing the aircraft with electronic warfare systems.

Ukrainian air defense commander Volodymyr Serdiuk told the media that the high speed of such drones makes it difficult to acquire the target for guidance. The Geran-4 resembles the newer turbojet-powered Geran-5, which, according to The National, carries a heavier payload.

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Production and interception

According to Ukrainian military intelligence, in May Russia — an aggressor state — may have been producing about 500 Geran-4 and more advanced Geran-5 drones per month, while last month the pace increased to 3,000 units per month. The US Center for Strategic and International Studies noted that the main challenge is Russia’s ability to rapidly test modifications in combat conditions and introduce changes into production within weeks.

Ukraine is also working on jet interceptor drones. Its fastest existing interceptors can reach up to 400 km/h, which is less than the stated speed of the new Gerans. The Gerans’ flight range is about 950 km, so they have to be launched closer to the border, making the aircraft themselves more vulnerable to counterattacks.

Possible transfer of technology to Iran

Experts also allow for the possible transfer of Russian technology to Iran. Tehran already has the turbojet-powered Shahed-238, which, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, can reach speeds of 300 to 600 km/h and carry up to 90 kg of payload. Royal United Services Institute analyst Robert Tollast believes that Iran obtaining such technology is only a matter of time.