Kalashnikov Concern will unveil its upgraded copter-type reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicles, Goliath 2.0 and Karakurt 2.0, at UMEX 2026, the 7th International Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference, taking place in Abu Dhabi from January 20 to 22. The announcement was made by the company’s press office.
Both platforms belong to the class of short-range tactical UAVs and are designed for electro-optical aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Their functional scope includes the search, detection, identification, and tracking of both stationary and moving targets. System architecture has been specifically optimized for operation in contested electromagnetic environments.
The onboard equipment suite includes a jam-resistant radio communication system featuring encrypted data links and frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) technology. This configuration significantly reduces the vulnerability of command-and-control and data transmission channels under electronic warfare (EW) conditions. ISR data is transmitted via an integrated joint-domain information exchange system and displayed at the command post in near-real-time.
The Goliath 2.0 is configured as a multifunctional reconnaissance system with a modular electro-optical payload. The payload includes a high-resolution daylight camera equipped with both wide-angle and telephoto lenses, as well as a thermal imaging sensor with high thermal sensitivity.
Mounting the payload on a three-axis gyro-stabilized gimbal improves image quality during maneuvering and in adverse wind conditions. For operations in dense low-altitude airspace, the UAV is additionally equipped with obstacle avoidance and collision warning systems designed to mitigate risks posed by other unmanned platforms.
The Karakurt 2.0 prioritizes mobility and covert employment. Its compact dimensions allow the system to be carried in a backpack or attached to individual soldier load-bearing equipment. The electro-optical payload, integrating daylight and thermal cameras, is mounted on a two-axis gyro-stabilized gimbal. The airframe design enables rapid battery replacement, allowing the operator team to sustain continuous reconnaissance throughout the mission cycle.
Kalashnikov highlights that a key feature of the Karakurt 2.0 is launch from a transport-launch container. The container protects the UAV during transport and enables rapid deployment, including launches while the operator is on the move or from a vehicle. This concept expands the system’s tactical employment options in highly dynamic combat environments.
Both UAVs are internally funded development programs of Kalashnikov Concern. Their presentation at UMEX 2026 reflects growing interest among Middle Eastern customers in compact reconnaissance UAVs capable of operating under electronic warfare pressure and supporting highly maneuverable units.
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