The Iranian-made Shahed unmanned aerial systems (UAS) have emerged as effective weapons in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Despite their effectiveness, these drones are relatively easy to shoot down, necessitating their use in large numbers to achieve significant damage.
Current Situation
As of Wednesday afternoon, Russia’s stock of Shahed drones has diminished considerably, limiting their deployment capabilities for the upcoming weeks. This reduction follows a series of successful counter-strikes by Ukraine.
Ukrainian Drone Strike
Kyiv has reportedly executed a successful drone strike on a military facility housing hundreds of Shahed drones. The target was located in Russia’s Krasnodar region.
Details of the Strike
- Location: Near the village of Oktyabrsky, Krasnodar Krai, Russia
- Target: A Shahed drone depot storing approximately 400 strike drones
- Outcome: An accurate hit was confirmed, with secondary detonation observed. This action is expected to significantly diminish the Russian military’s capability to conduct drone strikes against civilian targets in Ukraine.
Background on Shahed Drones
Iran has supplied Russia with Shahed drones even before the invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022. This supply included:
- 100 Shahed-136 drones
- 60 smaller Shahed-131 drones
These drones have been referred to as “suicide” or “kamikaze” drones, designed to explode upon impact.
Iran’s Drone Program
Although Iran lacks advanced capabilities to produce manned aircraft, it has rapidly developed its drone program. Notably, the Shahed-136 is believed to be a reverse-engineered version of a U.S. UAS captured in 2011. Additionally, it utilizes components, such as Western computer chips produced in China, showcasing Tehran’s resourcefulness in circumventing international sanctions.
Specifications of the Shahed UAV
- Engine: Chinese-produced MD550 engine, believed to be a reverse-engineered German design
- Maximum Speed: 185 kilometers per hour
- Launch Method: Can be launched from a catapult system or from pre-filled containers using an ejectable rocket assist system
The Role of Tehran in the Conflict
As Russian missile stockpiles deplete, Moscow has increasingly relied on Tehran for drones and other military supplies. Initially, Iran denied supplying these drones but has since abandoned such denials.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What is the main advantage of the Iranian-made Shahed drones in warfare?
- A) They are very difficult to shoot down.
- B) They can inflict significant damage when used in large numbers.
- C) They are equipped with advanced technology.
- D) They require no launch systems.
- How many Shahed drones were reportedly stored at the military facility attacked by Ukraine?
- A) 100
- B) 200
- C) 400
- D) 600
- What type of engine powers the Shahed UAV?
- A) U.S. manufactured engine
- B) German-designed engine
- C) Russian-made engine
- D) Chinese-produced MD550 engine
- What was the initial stance of Iran regarding the supply of drones to Russia?
- A) They openly confirmed it.
- B) They denied supplying drones.
- C) They claimed it was a joint operation.
- D) They remained neutral.
- Which drone has been used in Iran’s attacks on Israel?
- A) Shahed-131
- B) Shahed-136
- C) Both Shahed-131 and Shahed-136
- D) None of the above