RuAviation

Kalashnikov Concern has unveiled an upgraded version of its SKAT 350M unmanned aerial system, now equipped with an integrated HD infrared camera and a night vision module. The new system was showcased in Izhevsk during the annual Gunsmiths’ Day arms exhibition, according to the company’s press service.

The advanced payload is designed for surveillance and imaging in low-light and complete darkness. The company announced that the new camera will soon be installed on all production models of the system.

The night vision module features a CMOS sensor with a resolution of 1000 TVL, delivering high image detail in low-light conditions. Built-in IR illumination enables observation even in the absence of external light sources, while a wide field of view enhances monitoring effectiveness at night and in adverse weather. High-resolution analog cameras ensure clear capture of fine details, which is critical for the SKAT 350M’s primary missions of reconnaissance, monitoring, and support of ground operations.

The system operates reliably across a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions. The UAV has a wingspan of 3.2 meters (10.5 feet) and a maximum flight endurance of up to four hours. Each sortie covers at least 240 kilometers (150 miles). The payload options include a multispectral camera, expanding the spectral range of observation and enabling data collection beyond the capabilities of the human eye.

In 2024, the SKAT 350M was equipped with Russian-made remote identification equipment. During testing, the system maintained signal transmission at distances exceeding 40 kilometers (25 miles) from the airfield. The new equipment provides two-way communication between the UAV and air traffic control, enhancing operational safety in civilian airspace.

Since 2024, the SKAT 350M has been supplied to the State Transport Leasing Company for civilian applications. At the same time, the system remains actively deployed in the area of the Special Military Operation, where its effectiveness has been confirmed in real-world conditions.