Key features of Ukraine’s new Shahed analog spotted in latest attack on Russia

Defense Express writes about this.

On the night of March 10-11, Ukraine’s Defense Forces carried out a record-breaking drone assault on Russia, with Moscow claiming 337 UAVs were shot down. Among them was a new Ukrainian drone, visually similar to the Shahed.

A video from the attack shows Russian air defenses, likely a Pantsir-S1 system, taking down one of these drones. Unlike the newly unveiled Ukrainian UAS SETH, which functions more like the Russian Lancet, this drone mirrors the Shahed in both shape and deployment.

Though its exact specifications remain unclear, its large size suggests it could carry a warhead of several dozen kilograms. If the drone indeed reached the Moscow region, its range may exceed 600 km. Notably, it was painted black, likely to reduce detection by Russian air defenses.

Despite its resemblance to the Shahed, key differences exist. Judging by the footage, this drone has a front horizontal tail, which the Shahed lacks, experts note. This design likely improves maneuverability and control.

Another feature is a structure near the engine that resembles an air keel or antenna. However, its small width and large range make these explanations unlikely. A more likely option is that this is a hook for launching the drone from a catapult, analysts suggest.