RuAviation

JSC Kalashnikov Concern and LLC Archangel have signed a memorandum of cooperation in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The agreement establishes a joint manufacturing and training structure aimed at accelerating the deployment of advanced FPV (First Person View) drones for defense applications. For the first time in Russia, the memorandum formally recognizes the role of the grassroots defense industry as a source of combat-proven technological solutions developed in the context of the ongoing conflict. This was reported by Kalashnikov’s press service.

Under the memorandum, Archangel is responsible for selecting, evaluating, and conducting field trials of UAV designs submitted by independent engineers, small teams, and enthusiasts. These contributors, often referred to as the “people’s defense industry,” have demonstrated the ability to rapidly develop and refine UAVs under combat conditions. According to one project coordinator, “the grassroots defense sector has delivered several design solutions that would have been impossible within the traditional defense industry framework.” Selected prototypes undergo operational testing in active combat zones, and the most effective models are transitioned to mass production.

Kalashnikov Concern is tasked with scaling up and manufacturing the selected UAV projects at its own facilities. The company is also responsible for training operators and instructors to work with both in-house and third-party UAV systems.

Archangel announced via its Telegram channel that a new training center is planned for the Zaporizhzhia region, featuring laboratories for tactical development, technology integration, and direct feedback to production. Proximity to the front line will enable rapid implementation of combat-driven improvements and ensure the ongoing relevance of technical solutions.

LLC Archangel specializes in the integration and testing of new UAV models, as well as the development of drone tactics for modern warfare. The company coordinates a network of training sites in Moscow, Crimea, and Zaporizhzhia, where over 500 specialists—including operators, technicians, and drone racing pilots—have been trained in the past two years. In 2025, Archangel plans to launch programs for civilian sectors such as agriculture and forestry, as well as expand its drone sports initiatives.

The Archangel project is known for developing interceptor drones capable of operating in conjunction with a carrier aircraft. Trials conducted in Crimea in August of this year demonstrated that these UAVs can be integrated with existing radar systems without requiring hardware modifications.

The Archangel and Yolka interceptor drones operate in tandem with radar stations and air defense systems, utilizing their targeting data. During testing, the drones reached altitudes up to 4,900 feet (1,500 meters) and practiced engaging both aerial and ground targets. The carrier UAV acts as a relay, enabling the interceptor to strike targets beyond the radio horizon.

The Archangel drone can reach speeds up to 215 mph (345 km/h), carries a payload ranging from 1.5 to 15 lbs (700 g to 7 kg), and has an operational range of up to 31 miles (50 km). It can be launched from land, aircraft, or maritime platforms. Its high speed allows for multiple attack runs and agile maneuvering. Developers describe the system as a guided missile, designed to destroy vehicles, fortifications, boats, and other high-value targets.

Kalashnikov, Archangel, and the grassroots defense sector jointly oversee the project at every stage—from testing and selection to serial production and specialist training. This integrated approach enables the rapid adoption of field-proven technologies and helps maintain leadership in the unmanned systems domain.