Rosoboronexport of Russia has unveiled a diverse array of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) available for international export. Included in their offerings are the Orion reconnaissance/strike UAV, the Orlan-10E and Orlan-30 reconnaissance UAVs, along with the Kub-E loitering munition and other advanced systems.
According to company officials, Russian UAVs possess a distinct competitive advantage due to their adaptability, evolving based on real-world experience in high-intensity combat situations against advanced air defense systems. What sets Russia’s export proposals apart is the unprecedented openness to technology cooperation, enhancing the appeal of its UAVs and counter-UAV systems.
The global interest in unmanned systems is steadily growing, particularly in the Middle East and Gulf countries. “We not merely offering UAVs; they are exploring collaborative opportunities such as local production, technology transfer, and the establishment of joint ventures and service centers on customer premises, aligning with regional requirements,” stated company officials.
Adding, “Russia’s expertise extends beyond UAVs to ground counter-UAV systems, encompassing both soft kill (electronic warfare) and hard kill systems. These are designed to protect against a spectrum of UAV threats, from small drones to more sophisticated models.”
Orlan-30
A noteworthy development in 2023 was the introduction of the Orlan-30 UAV system for export. An advanced iteration of the well-established Orlan-10E, the Orlan-30 excels in aerial reconnaissance, target identification, and precision-guided weapon deployment day or night. Its debut at the Dubai Airshow 2023 garnered considerable interest from potential customers in the region.
Orlan UAVs play a dual role, also serving in electronic warfare against enemy UAVs, particularly in collaboration with ground-based electronic warfare systems. This synergy allows for effective counteraction against both individual drones and swarms.
Looking ahead
“We are optimistic about international interest in the Orion-E long endurance reconnaissance/strike drone. Praised for its modular design and open architecture, it offers flexibility in mission payloads, appealing to a variety of operational environments,” officials added.
Furthermore, the Kub-E loitering munition, known for its versatility in engaging single and group targets, is anticipated to gain significant traction in the global market. “ROSOBORONEXPORT’s strategic approach revolves around collaboration, showcasing Russia’s commitment to advancing global defense capabilities through shared technological progress.”