Russia has rapidly shifted from propeller-driven Shahed copies to a purpose-built, jet-powered Geran-4 that flies faster, higher, and farther, forcing Ukraine to stretch scarce air defenses. First high-performance copies appeared after earlier Geran-3 variants, and by mid-2026 Geran-4s were launched in large salvos - one reported overnight strike used 165 drones, 79 jet-powered - producing more destructive hits and evading low-cost interceptors by operating up to about 8 kilometers altitude and at speeds around 450-500 km/h. Many Geran-4s still perform programmed, fire-and-forget attacks, but an increasing number carry sensors and datalinks that enable more flexible targeting.
A physical teardown exposed the changes that make the Geran-4 more capable: a reinforced, aerodynamically refined airframe with integrated wings, a turbojet for higher speed and range (events show missions exceeding 700 km), and an advanced camera with daylight, night-vision and infrared modes plus 10x optical/32x digital zoom. Communications gear includes GSM modems and a Chinese mesh relay allowing up to ~300 km line-of-sight links and networked relays, enabling real-time operator control at extended distances. The drone contains many foreign-made components, including Chinese engines and U.S.-sourced circuit parts, highlighting persistent gaps in export-control enforcement that underpin this evolving threat.
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