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May 28, 20261
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Russia's Almaz-Antey Patents Drone-Killing Missile Using Kinetic Impact
Russia's Almaz-Antey Group has patented a surface-to-air missile using kinetic impact to destroy drones and uncrewed boats. The X-shaped convertiplane design offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional missiles for countering unmanned systems that operate at low speeds and low altitudes.
Quick Facts
Who
Almaz-Antey Group
What
patented a surface-to-air missile
When
May 28, 2026
Where
Russia
- patented a surface-to-air missile
- designed to counter drones and uncrewed boats
- uses kinetic impact instead of explosives
- equipped with optoelectronic homing head
- features X-shaped convertiplane configuration
Russia's Almaz-Antey Group has patented a surface-to-air missile designed to counter unmanned aerial vehicles and uncrewed boats through kinetic impact rather than explosives. The weapon features an X-shaped convertiplane design with fixed engine nacelles housing electric motors and propellers, along with an optoelectronic homing head for targeting.
According to the patent documentation obtained by TASS, the missile is engineered to intercept low-speed and hovering mini-class unmanned aerial vehicles, including kamikaze drones and reconnaissance systems, as well as unmanned attack boats. The design represents a departure from conventional anti-aircraft systems like the Strela-10 or Osa, which use traditional explosives but are considered economically inefficient against cheaper drone targets.
The developers emphasized several advantages of the kinetic-impact approach. Traditional ultra-short-range surface-to-air missiles, while effective against aircraft and helicopters, are prohibitively expensive compared to the cost of unmanned systems. Additionally, the high flight speed of conventional missiles limits their effectiveness against slow-moving or hovering drones operating deep within enemy territory or defending critical infrastructure. The new design aims to address these gaps by providing a cost-effective and tactically flexible solution for drone defense across various operational environments.
Why This Matters
This patent reveals a significant shift in Russia's air defense strategy against low-cost unmanned systems. As drones become cheaper and more prevalent on modern battlefields, developing cost-effective countermeasures is critical. The kinetic-impact approach addresses a real gap: traditional expensive missiles are economically inefficient against inexpensive drone targets, and their high speed makes them unsuitable for engaging slow-moving or hovering systems. This innovation could influence how militaries worldwide design affordable drone defense solutions, particularly for protecting critical infrastructure and forward positions.
Timeline & Sources
May 28, 2026
WireAlmaz-Antey Group's patent for kinetic-impact surface-to-air missile disclosed to media