The Russian military has developed a new self-propelled anti-tank missile system, combining the Okhotnik launch turret, equipped with three Kornet missiles, and the tracked unmanned platform Varan.
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The innovation was reported by Russian specialized media and represents an advancement in the use of unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) in combat.
New Modular Configuration
The system can operate in two modes:
- Fixed mode: the Okhotnik turret functions independently in a stationary position.
- Mobile mode: installed on the Varan platform, enabling greater mobility in attack missions.
The system can be controlled via both wired and radio connections, increasing operational flexibility.
Ukraine Already Uses Similar Technology
The concept of combining separate components to create a combat system is not new. Ukraine has already employed similar systems, such as:
- ShabRys: which combines the ShaBla machine gun turret with the wheeled ground drone Lynx.
- TheMIS: a UGV equipped with a Tamara machine gun turret, the Storm grenade launcher, and the Wolly system.
ATGM Kornet – Powerful Against Armored Targets
The 9K135 Kornet is one of Russia’s most advanced anti-tank missiles, capable of hitting and destroying heavily armored targets, including those with active protection systems. Key features include:
- Range: 100 to 5,500 meters in the basic version and up to 10 km in the Kornet-M version.
- Armor penetration: up to 1,300 mm after overcoming dynamic protection.
- Missile speed: between 250 and 300 m/s.
- Usage modes: can be deployed as a portable tripod-mounted system or integrated into armored vehicles.
- Various ammunition types: includes tandem-charge shaped warheads, thermobaric, and high-explosive fragmentation warheads.
Varan Platform – A Versatile Ground Drone
The Varan is a tracked unmanned platform designed for logistics support and combat operations. Key specifications include:
- Autonomy: up to 8 hours with rechargeable batteries.
- Maximum speed: 50 km/h.
- Payload capacity: up to 200 kg.
- Operational range: 4 km without a repeater, extending up to 10 km with one.
The introduction of this technology reinforces Russia’s investment in using armed ground drones for remote warfare and advanced tactical operations.
Source and images: mil.in.ua / telegram @bmpd_cast. This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team.
