RuAviation

Kalashnikov Concern has integrated an onboard optical navigation system into the SKAT-350M intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) unmanned aerial vehicle. The system is designed to operate in contested electromagnetic environments and enables mission execution under degraded or manipulated satellite signals.

The navigation concept relies on real-time correlation between imagery of the underlying terrain and preloaded digital maps. An onboard processing unit generates a navigation solution independent of satellite inputs. This approach mitigates route deviation under GNSS spoofing—when false GLONASS or GPS signals force the receiver to compute an incorrect position.

According to the developer, the proliferation of GPS spoofing tools remains high, while barriers to entry are low. This environment is driving the adoption of alternative navigation methods in ISR UAVs. In the SKAT-350M, loss of satellite navigation does not abort the mission. Instead, the system transitions to an autonomous mode with optical trajectory correction.

The system was tested in a high-intensity electronic warfare environment during combat operations. The trials confirmed устойчивость (resilience) of the optical navigation channel under sustained interference and repeated spoofing attempts. Accuracy metrics were not disclosed. However, the ability to maintain the planned route indicates sufficient real-time correlation between sensor data and the onboard map database.

The SKAT-350M is a multi-role ISR platform with an endurance of up to four hours. It is designed for operation across a wide temperature range and in challenging wind conditions. The payload includes electro-optical sensors and automated tracking algorithms that reduce operator workload during target acquisition and tracking.

The system operates in conjunction with KUB-series loitering munitions (KUB-2 and KUB-10, Russian loitering strike systems developed by Kalashnikov). The UAV performs reconnaissance, provides target coordinates, and supports battle damage assessment. This operational concept requires robust navigation and precise geolocation, making the integration of an optical navigation channel a key enabler of end-to-end mission effectiveness.