Russia has upgraded its Geran-4 attack drones with technologies that make them harder to jam and allow them to navigate more accurately, even without relying entirely on satellite signals, announced the Ukrainian military information service (HUR). The new version, used by Russia starting this fall, also has a spotlight designed to hit infrastructure, including bridges and high-voltage power lines, according to Kyiv Post.
One of the improvements is a small magnetic sensor produced by the American company PNI Sensor. This helps the drone detect changes in its position and correct errors in the onboard navigation system, enhancing its ability to maintain its course.
Russia has also added an optical navigation system called “Susanin”. In short, the system uses a camera to compare what the drone sees on the ground with the images stored in its computer.
This allows the drone to recognize the place where it is and follow the planned route even without relying on GPS or other satellite navigation systems.
According to HUR, a similar system is used on the new Geran-5 drone. The modernized Geran-4 is also equipped with a new spotlight specially designed to attack infrastructure. It can use a powerful penetrating explosive charge to pierce bridge structures and supports that hold high-voltage power lines.
Russia has also replaced the engine made in China previously used on the drone with a version made in Russia, produced at the Alabuga industrial complex in Tatarstan, Russia.
Details, HERE