Russian defense manufacturer Uraldronzavod will begin serial production of its Upyr-PVO fixed-wing interceptor drones in autumn to counter enemy unmanned aircraft.
A representative for Uraldronzavod announced the upcoming manufacturing schedule during an interview with Russian state news agency RIA Novosti.
The Upyr-PVO is a specialized fixed-wing aerial interceptor designed to track down and eliminate opposing unmanned aircraft. The company representative characterized the Upyr-PVO as a promising product, explaining that the interceptor is a simplified version of a strike aircraft.
Powered by twin electric motors, the drone can reach flight speeds of approximately 300 kilometers per hour. Uraldronzavod officials stated that this high-speed capability enables the aircraft to chase down and intercept fast-moving enemy drones in mid-air.
Technical Design and Interceptor Capabilities
The designation PVO is the standard Russian abbreviation for Protivovozdushnaya Oborona, which translates to air defense. Fixed-wing interceptors differ from multirotor quadcopters by relying on aerodynamic wings for lift, allowing for higher cruising speeds and greater flight endurance.
Using dedicated interceptor drones has emerged as a key tactical response to widespread unmanned aerial attacks. Small interceptors provide an efficient means of destroying incoming enemy aerial targets without expending costly traditional surface-to-air defense missiles.
The name Upyr comes from Slavic folklore, referring to a legendary ghoul or vampire. Uraldronzavod has used the moniker for its broader series of tactical unmanned aerial vehicles developed for military operations.
Uraldronzavod Lineup and Operations
The Upyr-PVO represents the latest addition to Uraldronzavod's expanding line of fixed-wing military drones. Earlier in August, the manufacturer announced the development of the Upyr-K, an airplane-type strike drone designed with an operational range of 80 kilometers.
The Upyr-K model carries an explosive payload weighing up to 12 kilograms. According to company specifications, that warhead capacity allows the strike drone to destroy buildings and fortified structures utilized by opposing forces.
Russian forces have increasingly integrated specialized interceptor drones into front-line operations to protect ground assets. In August, the Russian Ministry of Defence reported that Roy interceptor drones operated by the Sever, or Northern, troop grouping successfully disrupted a Ukrainian drone raid.
RIA Novosti, headquartered in Moscow, is Russia's primary state-owned news agency and frequently reports on military technology developments and domestic defense production programs.
