Reports have confirmed that a prototype drone, the S-70 Okhotnik, has been shot down over Ukraine.
Could Provide Valuable Insights
This sophisticated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was expected to play a key role in Russia's military operations. The incident has raised concerns among Russian officials that the wreckage could provide valuable insights into the drone’s design and capabilities.
Initial reports of the downing emerged on the evening of October 5. Within hours, social media showcased videos capturing the moment the drone was hit, along with images of the wreckage. According to Ukrainian sources, the S-70 Okhotnik fell near Konstantynivka in the Donetsk region, according to WP.
Interestingly, the news of the loss has also circulated among Russian media. The Fighterbomber channel, an unofficial outlet for Russian air force updates, acknowledged the incident, expressing fears that the Ukrainians might examine the technology used in the S-70 Okhotnik.
They are also speculating on whether the drone was successfully intercepted by enemy air defenses, which it was designed to withstand.
Could Lead to Delays in Deployment
The Fighterbomber channel indicated that the drone would be meticulously disassembled by Ukrainian forces, allowing them to explore its internal components. The commentary reflects a hope that the drone’s downing was due to internal system failures rather than enemy action.
There is still uncertainty regarding who is responsible for the drone's destruction. Some analysts suggest that Russian forces might have shot it down to prevent capture by the Ukrainians.
The incident may have involved a Su-57 fighter jet, which accompanied the Okhotnik during its flight, highlighting the significance of each S-70 Okhotnik in the conflict, as Russia operates only a limited number of these drones.
Forbes described this as a humiliating loss for the already beleaguered Russian air force, which has reportedly lost over 100 different combat aircraft in Ukraine.
While much about the S-70 Okhotnik remains classified, it is known to be a stealth UAV weighing around 55,000 pounds (25 tons) and capable of reaching speeds of up to 870 mph (1,400 km/h) at altitudes of approximately 34,500 feet (10.5 km).
