Ukraine uses Swedish missile system to down Russian jet-powered drone
The interception of a Geran-5 drone in the Kyiv region marks a successful engagement against a high-speed target.
Personnel from the 1027th Anti-Aircraft Missile and Artillery Regiment destroyed a Russian Geran-5 attack drone in the Kyiv region, according to the Times of India.
The interception was carried out using a Swedish-made RBS-70 air defence system. The Ukrainian military did not specify the exact time or location of the event.
A commander known by the callsign Vigo told the outlet LB.ua that the drone was travelling at speeds exceeding 500 kmph. He noted the aircraft descended toward its target only minutes before impact, which limited the response time for air defence crews.
The Geran-5 is a jet-powered drone with a turbojet engine, unlike the propeller-driven Geran-2 models. Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence Directorate (HUR) stated the drone resembles Iran’s Karrar and has a maximum take-off weight of approximately 850 kg.
Developed by Saab, the RBS-70 system employs laser beam-riding guidance rather than infrared seekers. This makes the system resistant to heat-decoy flares and certain types of electronic jamming, though it requires the operator to maintain a clear line of sight.
Sweden has provided military assistance to Ukraine, including an air defence package worth 1.2 billion Swedish kronor announced in February 2025.
