Images have appeared in the public domain that indicate that Ukraine has begun production of the kamikaze drones called RUBAKA. They can be considered an analogue of the Shahed-136 due to their specific features. Although details of the order were not disclosed.
It is stated that the RUBAKA kamikaze drones are planned to be used by the Defense Intelligence of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine. The cost of one copy is about 15,000 dollars, with a claimed flight range of up to 500 km. The estimated weight of the explosive charge varies from 2-5 to 15 kg, according to different sources.
Read more: The Five Key Differences Between the New Shahed Kamikaze Drones and the Old Version
The very fact that such a kamikaze drone is at the disposal of the Ukrainian Defense Forces looks interesting not only because Ukraine's military industry is expanding its UAV production line. But also because of some specific design elements of the RUBAKA kamikaze drone.
Firstly, currently, this is the only kamikaze drone in the world where the propulsion system with a propeller is located in the nose section, not in the tail section of the fuselage. This choice was probably due to the peculiarity of the engine for small aircraft, which is evidently used on such a kamikaze drone.
Additionally, the RUBAKA UAV does not have an optoelectronic station. This could imply that this aircraft is likely intended for targeting predetermined coordinates by an inertial guidance system.
Moreover, there is an air pressure sensor on the right wing, confirming the use of such a guidance system.
Earlier, Defense Express reported that a Baykar service center will be opened in Ukraine to service Bayraktar TB2 drones.
As Defense Express reported, Ukrainian Military Destroyed the Newest Buk-M3 SAM System, 9С18М3 Target Detection Radar. We also wrote, that Ukrainian Air Assault Troops Showed How They Destroy Enemy With Attack UAVs.
Read more: Moscow-Attacking Drone Revealed in Detailed Photos for The First Time
