RuAviation

Kalashnikov Concern has developed the tactical KUB-10ME loitering munition, capable of striking targets over 62 miles (100 km) away. The system reflects combat-proven experience from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and aims to increase tactical reach without relying on manned aircraft, according to the company’s press office.

The KUB-10ME falls within the tactical loitering munition class, featuring an advanced guidance architecture with enhanced resistance to countermeasures.

“The system’s main innovations include an electro-optical guidance suite that enables engagement of moving targets, along with improved protection against electronic warfare and air defense systems. It also carries onboard photo and video recording capabilities,” Kalashnikov officials noted.

The munition operates at altitudes from 260 to 5,900 ft (80–1,800 m) and cruises at 75 mph (120 km/h). It can be deployed day or night, in gusty winds up to 22 mph (10 m/s), and temperatures ranging from –22°F to +104°F (–30°C to +40°C). Its flight profile supports covert ingress into target areas and loitering until engagement.

Designed for use within tactical units, the system integrates reconnaissance data sharing and strike execution into a single operational cycle. It is intended to engage:

• Unarmored and lightly armored vehicles
• Armored personnel carriers
• Command posts and air defense/electronic warfare positions
• Signals intelligence (SIGINT) sites
• UAV launch positions
• Aircraft and helicopters outside protected shelters

With a range exceeding 62 miles, the KUB-10ME enters a domain previously served by medium-range tactical strike systems or reusable armed reconnaissance UAVs, such as Russia’s Orion, Forpost-R, and, to some extent, Orlan-10.

These UAVs conduct reconnaissance, adjust artillery or missile fire, and, when required, strike targets before returning to base. The Orion offers up to 24 hours of endurance, Forpost-R combines high maneuverability with a 155-mile (250 km) range, and Orlan-10 provides simplicity of operation with up to 16 hours of flight time.

Unlike these platforms, the KUB-10ME is a single-use “kamikaze” drone. Its expendable design streamlines launch preparation, reduces target engagement reaction time, and does not require airfield infrastructure. Despite this, it maintains precision strike capability, combining extended reach and operational effectiveness with minimal logistical demands and rapid response.

The KUB-10ME continues the evolution of Kalashnikov’s loitering munitions, building on earlier KUB variants. Previous versions focused on stationary targets at shorter ranges with basic electronic counter-countermeasure (ECCM) capabilities. The new system expands functional capabilities, providing an efficient, one-shot strike option for both front-line engagement and rear-area targets.