Russia is gradually increasing the combat capabilities of its unmanned aircraft. Deputy Prime Minister Yuri Borisov in an interview with Interfax spoke about the work on the Altius-RU drone.
"The first prototype of the UAV took to the air in 2016. Based on the results of the test, it was decided to refine it to the level required by the Ministry of Defense. The device is being seriously upgraded. The dimensions of the drone will change, its take-off weight will decrease with a simultaneous increase in the weight of the payload. "Altius will be able to perform strike missions and receive information via satellite," Borisov said.
Prototype of the UAV " Altius-RU»
Image source: rg.ru
The latest prototype drone is equipped with two turboprop engines and can stay in the air for up to 48 hours. The flight range reaches 10,000 km. At four suspension points, the device can carry up to a ton of weapons. Earlier, it was also reported about plans to equip the Altius with artificial intelligence (for autonomous operation) and the ability to control a drone from a Su-57 fighter.
In the coming months, it is planned to test the drone with the entire range of weapons: high-precision missiles and adjustable bombs. It is expected that after the adoption of the drone will receive not only the VKS, but also the Russian Navy.
