Russia is developing not just the S-71 cruise missile, but an autonomous weapon capable of independently selecting targets
Kyiv • UNN
The Russian Federation is developing the S-71M autonomous missile for Su-57 fighters. The system will be able to independently search for and destroy targets without operator intervention.
Russia is developing a new S-71 weapons system that goes beyond the scope of a classic cruise missile and involves the creation of an autonomous strike weapon. This was reported by Defense Express, according to UNN.
Details
According to the Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR) of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, the S-71 is being created in two stages: the S-71K "Kover" (Carpet) variant is designed to hit targets with known coordinates, while the subsequent S-71M "Monokhrom" (Monochrome) version is expected to gain the ability to independently search for and destroy targets without operator intervention.
From a missile to an autonomous strike system
The S-71K, which was first deployed in late 2025, has a range of up to 350 km, can fly at low altitudes, and is equipped with a 250 kg warhead. Its stealthy airframe and low radar cross-section make detection difficult.
At the same time, the key focus is the development of the S-71M "Monokhrom" — an autonomous strike weapon with a homing system capable of independently making attack decisions based on a target database. It is expected that modernized Su-57M1 fighters will serve as the carriers for this weapon.
Intelligence also notes that in the creation of the S-71, Russia continues to use Western civilian components, and the development itself has been ongoing since at least 2024.