Ukraine's Defense Intelligence has revealed the structure and foreign component base of new russian jet-powered strike drone known as Geran-4, marking another stage in Moscowєs effort to adapt its long-range drone campaign against Ukraine.
According to the Defense Intelligence, the information was published through the War&Sanctions portal, where analysts released an interactive 3D model of the UAV, including its internal systems and imported components. The disclosure is intended to expose the international supply chains that continue to support russian drone production despite sanctions.
Read more: New Photos of China's Y-9GX-18 Gunship Reveal Turret-Mounted Cannon, Radar, Possible DIRCM System
Geran-4 system emerged after the limitations of earlier jet-powered variants became evident. Previous systems, including Geran-3, reportedly relied on the airframe of the gasoline-powered Geran-2, but the design lacked the structural strength needed for sustained high-speed flight and aggressive maneuvering.
The new drone therefore received a redesigned airframe with improved aerodynamics, reinforced structural elements, and a more powerful turbojet engine. Ukrainian intelligence noted that the wings are now permanently integrated into the central fuselage rather than detachable, while the number of external maintenance hatches was reduced to decrease aerodynamic drag.
The report identifies two Chinese-made turbojet engines used in the program: Telefly LX-WP-160 unit, which produces 160 kgf of thrust, and more powerful Telefly TF-TJ2000A unit with 200 kgf of thrust. The latter engine had previously been associated with Geran-5 UAV. Ukraine's Defense Intelligence separately indexed these components on the War&Sanctions platform to highlight their role in russian weapons production.
According to the disclosed specifications, the new airframe allows Geran-4 system to maneuver at speeds between 300 and 400 km/h, with a maximum speed reportedly reaching 500 km/h. The drone can also climb to altitudes of up to 5 kilometers, potentially complicating interception efforts compared to earlier Shahed-derived systems.
The UAV is reportedly capable of carrying either fragmentation high-explosive or thermobaric warheads weighing around 50 kilograms, as well as an enlarged 90-kilogram thermobaric payload. Ukrainian intelligence estimates its operational range at up to 450 kilometers, making it suitable for strikes against targets deep inside Ukrainian territory.
According to the Defense Intelligence, russia began combat use of Geran-4 system in May 2026. The drone is described as part of Moscow's response to the growing effectiveness of Ukrainian interceptor drones. The drone's onboard control systems and electronics remain largely similar to those used in previous UAVs produced by the Alabuga facility, suggesting that the main improvements focus on speed, survivability, and flight performance rather than a complete redesign of guidance systems.
Read more: What's Special About Hornet UAV Ukrainians Using to Destroy russian Logistics, Where Did It Come From, What Are Its Key Features
