Kosovo has announced that its security forces will begin operating long-range strike drones developed domestically, capable of reaching targets over 1,000 kilometers away.
The equipment, similar to the Shahed drones used in recent conflicts, is part of an effort to expand the defensive and offensive capabilities of the territory amid rising regional instability.
The unmanned aerial vehicles, named SKIFTERI K1, have already been ordered by the security forces, according to manufacturer Ridvan Aliu. The model features a flying wing design, can carry up to 42 kilograms of payload, remain in the air for up to seven hours, and achieve a maximum operational radius of 1,124 kilometers, while showing a high level of accuracy in operational tests.
According to Aliu, Kosovo has started producing four different types of drones. Production began with smaller FPV models, while larger and more advanced versions are still under development, indicating a long-term strategy to establish a domestic unmanned aerial systems industry.
The expansion of this military capability comes amid historical tensions between Kosovo and Serbia dating back to the 20th century. Following the 1998–1999 war and the 2008 declaration of independence — still not recognized by Belgrade — relations between the two sides remain marked by diplomatic instability and mutual distrust, keeping the Balkans under constant international attention.
Source: Militarnyi | Photo: Facebook – Ridvan Aliu | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
