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The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine's GUR publishes interactive 3D models, components and electronic components of the Russian Lancet and Scalpel loitering munitions, as well as data on the enterprises involved in their production, in the “Weapon Components” section of the War&Sanctions portal.
Main theses:
- The Lancet and Scalpel drones are Russian-made, impact-based loitering munitions in use.
- Operators of these drones are implementing elements of autonomous guidance, including using artificial intelligence modules.
GUR publishes information about Russian loitering munitions “Lancet” and “Scalpel”
“Lancet” (known as “Product-51”) is one of the most widely used enemy strike UAVs manufactured by Zala Aero Group, affiliated with the Kalashnikov concern.
The remains of the UAV shot down over Kyiv on March 16 were identified as a “Lancet,” which may indicate that the enemy has modernized this weapon, the main purpose of which was previously to destroy vehicles, equipment, and firing positions at tactical and operational depths.
“Scalpel” is a lesser-known product developed by the Vostok design bureau, which is called the “little brother” of the “Lancet” due to its X-shaped wing design.
Both UAVs are guided by the operator in real time, however, in the “Lancet” the enemy is trying to implement elements of autonomous guidance, in particular with the use of artificial intelligence modules, in particular solutions based on Nvidia Jetson. Similar technologies were previously detected in other enemy UAVs – V2U.
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In total, the update identified 62 electronic components in the “lancet” and “scalpel.” Most of them are of foreign origin — primarily from the United States, but also from Switzerland and the People's Republic of China.
Drone “Lancet”
Despite sanctions, Russia retains access to critical technologies and continues to improve its own weapons. Even technological products such as modules for artificial intelligence solutions remain available to it.
Recall that a similar module was also identified in the Iranian-made MS-series Geran-2 drone, which is evidence of joint work between the Russian Federation and Iran on their modernization.
The technologies used today against Ukraine pose a potential threat to other regions of the world. The publication of such data is intended to contribute to increasing sanctions pressure and limiting the aggressor's access to modern technologies.