Click to see full-size image. (Kalashnikov Group)
Russian defense giant Kalashnikov will present its latest RUS-PE loitering munition for the first time at the World Defense Show 2026 exhibition, which opens its doors in the capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh, from February 8 to 12.
In a press release, the defense group said that the loitering munition is capable of detecting and identifying targets using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies.
“The dual-channel gyro stabilized optical seeker system makes it possible to automatically detect and identify stationary and moving targets using AI technologies,” Kalashnikov said.
The loitering munition, which features X-shaped wings, is equipped with a warhead, a navigation system, in addition to its seeker system.
Click to see full-size image. (Kalashnikov Group)
The RUS-PE is cold launched with pressure from a portable container. The complex guidance system allows the loitering munition to operate in autonomous, semi-autonomous, and manual modes. The munition can stay in the air for up to 30 minutes, with a cruising speed of 140 kilometers per hour. This gives it an estimated range of 70 kilometers.
“The RUS-PE system is designed for the rapid, high-precision engagement of single, stationary, and moving enemy targets,” Kalashnikov said.
Since the start of the special military operation in Ukraine, Russia has risen to become one of the world leaders in the development and manufacturing of loitering munitions.
Many loitering munitions made in the country, like the ZALA Aero Group’s Lancet, have already proven their worth during the special military operation.
What sets the RUS-PE apart from the Lancet, which have very similar specifications, is the fact that it is launched from a portable container. This saves much preparation time and allows for rapid deployment, as Kalashnikov itself noted in its press release.
It is unclear yet if the new loitering munition was tested in the special military operation zone, or if the Russian military is planning to purchase it. More details will likely be available once the World Defense Show 2026 opens its door. Kalashnikov could release test footage.
_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence
NOW hosted at southfront.press
Previously, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.org.
The .org domain name had been blocked by the US (NATO) (https://southfront.press/southfront-org-blocked-by-u-s-controlled-global-internet-supervisor/) globally, outlawed and without any explanation
Back before that, from 2013 to 2015, SouthFront: Analysis and Intelligence was at southfront.com