The Russian jet-powered strike drone "Geran-4" has a number of serious drawbacks compared to the conventional "Shahed," despite its higher flight speed. This was reported by Defense Express with reference to an analysis of the drone's component base released by the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, UNN reports.
Details
As analysts note, Russia initially attempted to create a jet version by simply replacing the gasoline engine with a jet engine in the "Geran-3." However, the standard airframe could not withstand flights at high speeds and significant G-loads. Because of this, for the "Geran-4," they effectively had to create a new airframe with a reinforced structure and non-removable wings.
New airframe complicated production and transportation
Defense Express notes that the new design allowed the drone to maneuver at speeds of 300-400 km/h, with the maximum speed increasing to 500 km/h. At the same time, the reinforced hull and the reduction in the number of technological hatches complicated production, transportation, and pre-launch preparation.
In addition, the increased loads require more expensive components—more powerful servos, fuel pumps, and other systems. This increases production costs and extends the technological cycle compared to the conventional "Geran-2." The publication notes that Russia failed to realize the initial plan of maximum unification between models.
Strike range reduced several times over
One of the main drawbacks of the "Geran-4" was a significantly shorter flight range—up to 450 km compared to 1,800-2,500 km for the classic "Shahed." Because of this, the enemy can no longer launch strikes from existing launch areas against targets further than the Kyiv, Kirovohrad, and Odesa regions.
Analysts also emphasize that for strikes even at such distances, jet drones will have to be launched along direct routes without complex maneuvers to bypass air defenses. At the same time, at economical speeds, the "Geran-4" remains vulnerable to Ukrainian anti-aircraft drones.
Separately, Defense Express pointed out that both the "Geran-4" and "Geran-5" use Chinese TF-TJ2000A turbojet engines from the Telefly company, which may indicate established supplies of these components from China.
Intelligence has released data on the new Russian jet-powered strike UAV "Geran-4"25.05.26, 12:38