Ukrainian R-34-T laser-guided unmanned aerial vehicle receives approval

The Ukrainian R-34-T laser-guided unmanned aerial vehicle has been officially approved for operational use by units of the Defense Forces of Ukraine, the Ministry of Defense announced, quoted by Ukrinform and BTA.

The drone was developed by order of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), has successfully passed all stages of testing and is now ready to perform combat missions. Its main function is laser guidance for precise targeting of targets using guided munitions, including artillery and aviation, the statement said.

Thanks to its laser guidance capability, the drone significantly increases the effectiveness of guided munitions, especially at long distances and in conditions of active enemy air defense. In addition, the device is distinguished by protected communication channels, modular design and resistance to the effects of electronic warfare means, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine noted. According to the statement, this allows for more efficient use of resources, minimizes ammunition consumption, and reduces risks for operators and combat units.

Since the beginning of this year, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry has codified and approved for use by the Armed Forces of Ukraine nearly 50 new types of military vehicles - twice as many as in the first half of last year, Ukrinform reports.

Drones play an important role in the war, with both sides in the conflict attacking each other with unmanned aerial vehicles every night.

Russia and Ukraine are also in a race when it comes to developing new, advanced drones, the Washington-based think tank Institute for the Study of War commented.