Drone warfare has rapidly evolved, with military forces worldwide adapting low-cost unmanned systems for increasingly destructive purposes.
Russia is now taking a step further by modifying its Molniya-2 drones to carry new types of explosive payloads, increasing their threat on the battlefield.
Russia Upgrades Molniya-2 Drones
The Russian military has started equipping Molniya-2 drones with RPO-A Shmel thermobaric warheads, according to a report from Defense Express.
A video released by Russia’s Ministry of Defense, spotted by social media users, shows the installation of these new warheads. While it is unclear how widespread this practice is, the modifications highlight the adaptability of the Molniya-2 platform.
Previously, these drones have been seen carrying other improvised payloads, such as KZ-6 explosive charges and RPG-7 anti-tank grenades. More recently, Russian forces have also experimented with attaching TM-62 anti-tank mines to these UAVs.
Mass Production Potential
As reported by Tech WP, defense analysts warn that the simplicity of the Molniya-2’s construction makes it easy to mass-produce.
The drone is built primarily from plywood and aluminum tubing, with lightweight wings and stabilizers designed for quick assembly.
Powered by a basic electric motor, likely sourced from China, it reaches speeds of 80 km/h with an operational range of approximately 40 km.
With these modifications, the Molniya-2 is becoming a more versatile and dangerous weapon, showing how rapidly drone technology is evolving in modern warfare.
