Russia is working on equipment designed for use in nuclear warfare conditions, with one of the latest developments being the ominously named "Doomsday Drone."
Technical Details Remain Sparse
This device, intended to measure radiation levels, underscores the Kremlin's ongoing preparations for extreme battlefield scenarios, according to Tech.
The development of the new equipment was reported by TASS, the Kremlin’s official news agency. While technical details remain sparse, some operational specifications have been released. The Doomsday Drone is expected to have a range of 500 meters to two kilometers and can be ready for deployment in just 30 seconds. It can be controlled from mobile platforms and launched from armored vehicles, with a flight duration of approximately 20 minutes.
Various usage scenarios for the Doomsday Drone include detecting contamination along vehicle convoy routes or analyzing damage caused by nuclear explosions, even inside buildings.
The Atomic Doomsday Drone
Dmitrij Kuzjakin, director of the Center for Integrated Unmanned Systems, expressed hope that the drone would never be needed, stating, "I am convinced that common sense will prevail and the world will not allow the use of nuclear weapons, but we consider it a crime not to be prepared for the worst-case scenario." Kuzjakin emphasized that the drone combines the best features of FPV (First Person View) drones, such as speed and maneuverability, allowing it to navigate difficult environments, including building interiors.
Instead of carrying a combat payload, the new Russian drone will be equipped with sensors to detect harmful substances or a dosimeter to assess radioactive contamination along its flight path. Kuzjakin noted that while various reconnaissance flying platforms, including those for radiation detection, already exist, they are often expensive and complex. The Doomsday Drone is designed to be simple and affordable, making it accessible for soldiers operating on or near the front lines.
