The Russian Ministry of Defense has released images of a modified Orion attack drone, as well as Mi-8AMTSh-VN and Mi-28NM helicopters equipped with compact cruise missiles and jet-powered drones. The new configurations could allow Russian forces to strike targets hundreds of kilometers away while reducing the aircraft’s exposure to Ukrainian air defense systems.
Several military publications have released footage and images of Russian aircraft equipped with compact cruise missiles and jet-powered drones designed for long-range strikes.
These developments are part of Moscow’s efforts to create cheaper alternatives to cruise missiles launched from conventional combat aircraft. Such an approach could reduce the risks faced by pilots and crews during operations near air defense lines.
The platforms in question include the Orion drone, the Mi-8AMTSh-VN transport and attack helicopter, and the Mi-28NM attack helicopter.
The Orion Drone and the S8000 Banderol Cruise Missile
In July, a video was posted on Russian propagandist Vladimir Solovyov’s Telegram and MAX channels showing an Orion drone, also known as the Inokhodets, equipped with an S8000 Banderol cruise missile.
The footage was later picked up by the Vesti television channel and other Russian media outlets. However, the weapon mounted beneath the fuselage had been deliberately blurred, and the recording did not show the moment of launch.
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