It's no longer a surprise, Ukraine has repeatedly demonstrated its expertise in drone technology.
Recently, it's the Magura V7 naval drone that has caused a lot of damage. Equipped with AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, capable of reaching Mach 2 speeds (that's 3,000km/h), the 8-meter long machine is capable of striking enemy fighter jets. Therefore, it's no surprise to learn that it has already shot down two Russian Su-30 fighters, reports the media outlet L’Indépendant.
This Thursday, May 15th, Ukrainian intelligence (GUR) revealed additional technical details about the Magura V7: 48 hours of autonomy, which can be extended to 7 days thanks to its onboard generator, as well as a 270 horsepower engine. And GUR didn't stop there, as it took care to list all the victims of this formidable weapon, including a Mi-8 helicopter, 16 Russian ships, and the two Su-30s. "We're beginning to chase the Russians out of the Black Sea sky," claimed the director of Ukrainian military intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov.
Total cost of losses: Over 100 million dollars
"These drones, deployed by the GUR under the command of General Budanov, have successfully destroyed 21 enemy targets, setting a world record," enthusiastically declared Andriy Yusov, a representative of GUR, to the media outlet Ukrinform. "Among them are 16 enemy warships, currently at the bottom of the Black Sea, as well as three helicopters and two fighter jets. The cost of the two aircraft alone exceeds 100 million dollars."
(MH with Manon Pierre - Source: L’Indépendant - Illustration: ©Unsplash)
Quick links