Russian kamikaze Shahed-136s are geared up with differential GPS

Latest data from Ukrainian sources reveals an intriguing improvement: newly acquired images of the Russian Shahed-136 drone, which seems to have been introduced down. Extra exactly, these photographs provide a nearer take a look at some parts of the Geran-2 [Shahed-136] drone’s onboard electronics. An extremely noteworthy picture showcases a {hardware} unit devoid of any authentic manufacturing facility labels. As a substitute, etchings marked ‘DGPS’ and a sequence of numbers take their place. 

Picture credit score: Wikipedia

Based mostly on these findings, it appears believable that the Russians is perhaps incorporating Differential GPS [DGPS] navigation tools into their Shahed-136 drones. Hypothetically, this may improve the precision with which these kamikaze drones can hit their targets. 

Delving deeper into DGPS, it stands for Differential International Positioning System – a know-how that notably enhances the precision of location willpower. Curiously, DGPS isn’t solely restricted to navy functions, it’s additionally regularly utilized in civil engineering constructions. For example, it aids agriculture by enabling exact tillage by way of farming equipment.

Consideration to the block

Wanting on the operational precept of DGPS within the public area, it’s clear that it requires two receivers. Considered one of these receivers stays stationary, positioned at a spot with exact coordinates. The opposite one is cellular and at all times in movement. Curiously, information originating from the bottom receiver is used to right information gathered by the cellular machine, and this correction usually takes place in real-time. 

The suspicions in Ukraine that Russians are using DGPS elevate some questions. If these suspicions are right, it’s unclear why the Russians geared up a modem and a video digital camera on considered one of their Shaheds. This tools could possibly be used to confirm the plane’s place at any given level. Subsequently, it stays ambiguous whether or not the DGPS module and the digital camera modem are elements of the identical management circuit, or if they’re serving as backups for one another. 

Russian kamikaze Shahed-136s are equipped with differential GPS
Picture credit score: Protection Specific

We also needs to take a take a look at the block labeled ADC-PLS-002, a element that hasn’t been introduced into focus in earlier explorations of the Shahed-136’s electronics. That is merely conjecture at this level, but when we go by one of many block’s inscriptions, it appears it’s designed to assemble information concerning the plane’s flight pace. One of many drone’s mechanisms might be linked to the pitot tube, nestled within the Shahed-136’s wing.

About Geran-2

The Russian Geran-2 kamikaze drone, also called a loitering munition, is a kind of unmanned fight aerial automobile [UCAV] designed for a one-time assault mission. The electronics of the Geran-2 drone are subtle, together with a number of sensors and communication methods. These embody a high-resolution digital camera for goal identification and monitoring, a GPS system for navigation and management, and a radio communication system for distant management and information transmission. The drone additionally options an autopilot system, permitting it to fly pre-programmed routes or to be manually managed by an operator on the bottom. 

The Geran-2 drone is primarily made from light-weight composite supplies. These supplies are chosen for his or her power and sturdiness, in addition to for his or her light-weight, which permits the drone to remain aloft for prolonged intervals. The drone’s design is streamlined for aerodynamic effectivity, and it includes a pusher propeller configuration, with the propeller positioned on the rear of the drone.

Russia put a GLONASS navigation module in Iranian Shahed-129
Picture credit score: Twitter

How does Geran-2 work?

The operational mechanism of the Geran-2 drone includes a mixture of autonomous and guide management. The drone might be launched from varied platforms, together with ground-based launchers or different plane. As soon as within the air, the drone can fly a pre-programmed route utilizing its autopilot system or manually managed by an operator on the bottom. Upon figuring out a goal, the drone might be directed to crash into it, thereby detonating its onboard explosive cost. 

The operational vary of the Geran-2 drone is reported to be round 50 kilometers. Nevertheless, this will fluctuate relying on components such because the drone’s pace, altitude, and prevailing climate situations. For safety causes, the quantity of cost carried by the Geran-2 drone will not be publicly disclosed. However, it’s identified that the drone carries a substantial explosive cost, which is adequate to trigger severe injury to a goal.

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