As strategic tensions persist and technological advancement charges forward, nations are constantly vying for the next leap in military capability. In December 2021 Russia rolled out the first flight prototype of its Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik-B – Russian for Hunter – stealth drone.
The first prototype of the new UCAV was revealed in 2017, showcasing the platform’s flying wing configuration. Two years later, the Okhotnik carried out its maiden flight, where it flew above the Chkalov State Flight Test Center in Akhtubinsky at an altitude of 600 meters.
The Russian Defense Ministry awarded Sukhoi the contract to construct a new lethal UCAV program in 2011, which led to the conceptualization of the S-70 drone. According to Moscow, this new drone is a sixth-generation platform capable of penetrating outer space.
Russian sources tout the Okhotnik-B as a 20-ton flying-wing scheme UAV, powered by an AL-31 turbojet engine capable of 621 miles per hour and a range of 3,728 miles. It is said to be equipped with electro-optical targeting, radio, and other reconnaissance equipment, and can house up to 2.8 tons of munitions in its internal bays.
Interestingly, the Okhotnik made a brief appearance in Ukraine’s Poltava Oblast in mid-2023, marking its combat debut amid the ongoing conflict.
Despite the technological advancements and the successful test flights, there are underlying challenges that Russia faces in bringing the Okhotnik-B to fruition. Sanctions have placed significant strain on the acquisition of essential computer chips and advanced components for military equipment. To counter these limitations, Russia has reportedly sought support from Iran, moving towards the development of a UAV factory near Moscow and tapping into Tehran’s expertise and resources to bolster its drone capabilities.
Relevant articles:
– Sukhoi S-70 Okhotnik-B: Russia’s Stealth Drone Could Be a Game Changer, The National Interest, Feb 8, 2024
– S-70 Okhotnik-B: 5 Reasons NATO Hates Russia’s New Stealth Drone, The National Interest, Dec 27, 2023
– Russian Stealth Combat Drone Nearing Production, forecastinternational.com
Imagine what they might accomplish if they were of any use and invented something to help mankind, not hurt it. In a world where the U.K. and France etc. are giving colonized countries control back to the natives. Russia, China, and N. Korea have learned nothing from the past and still have small minded men with a small penis, and large chip on their shoulder ,ruining everything for everyone. They’re as smart as Dr. Evil and have all the same goals as him too.