Russia’s latest Lancet drones have discovered a way to bypass Ukrainian defenses, according to reports. A video footage reveals a drone firing explosively formed penetrators at a Ukrainian vehicle, with the warheads detonating at a distance from the target rather than on impact. The advanced version of the Lancet drone seems to have found a new method to evade Ukrainian anti-tank grids and anti-drone nets.
The Russian military shared a video demonstrating a Lancet drone striking a Ukrainian combat vehicle by detonating several feet away from the target. This deliberate tactic appears to be a deliberate upgrade, as the newer Lancet drones now explode their warheads in the air before launching explosively formed penetrators towards the intended target. These penetrators, described as “slugs of molten metal,” pose a significant threat as they can bypass Ukrainian armored anti-tank grids and anti-drone nets.
Unlike previous models, which relied on warheads that detonated upon impact, the new Lancet drones are equipped with lidar technology. This technology uses a laser rangefinder comprising two optical cameras to optimize the detonation distance. Ukrainian military portal Militarynyi confirms this development. The explosive formed penetrators (EFPs) can travel several meters without losing their shape, making them highly effective against Ukrainian armored vehicles.
The Conflict Intelligence Team, an independent Russian organization, reported a video showcasing the latest Lancet drone armed with EFPs striking a Bradley IFV on the Donetsk axis. The video reveals two distinct flashes, one occurring approximately four meters from the target when the charge explodes, and the second when the EFP reaches the armored vehicle. This integration of EFPs with Lancet drones provides them with heightened battlefield effectiveness.
While this advancement poses a risk to some Ukrainian vehicles, Forbes suggests that the best-protected vehicles should still be able to withstand these attacks. Yurii Ihnat, spokesperson for Ukraine’s Air Force, advises countering the drones by shooting them down in mid-flight or employing electronic warfare to suppress their capabilities. Ihnat also suggests targeting Orlan-10 drones, which are used for reconnaissance and aid Lancet drones in locating their targets.
Russia’s Lancet drones have become a significant threat on the Ukrainian battlefield, continuously advancing in range and capabilities. It is crucial for Ukraine to develop effective countermeasures to mitigate their impact.
