MID discloses new version of Russian Geranium with R 60 aircraft missile
The Main Intelligence Department of Ukraine has published details of a new modification of the Russian strike drone Geranium 2, which is equipped with a P 60 air-to-air missile. The information was posted in the Weapons Components section of the War and Sanctions portal.
According to the Intelligence of Ukraine, the aggressor state used the Soviet development of the R 60 to destroy Ukrainian helicopters and aircraft involved in intercepting enemy drones. The missile with the APU 60 1MD air launcher is mounted on a special bracket in the upper front part of the drone's fuselage.
The new version of Gerani has two network cameras in the nose and behind the launcher. Video and control commands are transmitted via a Chinese mesh modem Xingkay Tech XK F358. For navigation in conditions of active electronic warfare, a 12-channel jamming-resistant Kometa module is used.
The electronic filling includes a Raspberry Pi 4 single-board computer, as well as two GSM modems for telemetry transmission. According to intelligence reports, the components originate from at least seven countries, including the United States, China, Japan, Taiwan, Germany, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
The likely principle of use involves transmitting images from the drone's cameras to the operator, who, in the event of a Ukrainian aircraft or helicopter, gives the command to launch. After that, the missile's thermal homing head will capture the target on its own.
The MID emphasises that the main purpose of the new modification is to create an additional threat to Ukrainian army and tactical aviation and reduce the effectiveness of intercepting enemy UAVs. Russia can share this experience with Iran for further development of the Shahed 136 platform.
