Dubai Airshow 2025 – Russia displays upgraded Forpost-RE UAV

A model of the upgraded Forpost-RE medium-range reconnaissance and attack unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is on display in the Russian pavilion at the Dubai Airshow

This UAV was previously demonstrated at IDEX 2025, as reported by EDR On-Line. However, the version presented in Dubai features an updated design, which has improved its effectiveness in performing various missions.

According to Ekaterina Zgirovskaya, spokesperson for the Ural Works of Civil Aviation (UZGA), the upgrade has expanded the Forpost-RE’s payload range while maintaining its performance characteristics. By using new technological processes, the designers were able to reduce the labor intensity of manufacturing of the export version. The design of the wing and empennage was modified during the process. The UAV now features a composite wing box instead of a metal frame, reducing the number of joints and fasteners. The new, longer-span wing offers improved aerodynamic performance. The upgrades have increased the payload capacity of the Forpost-RE UAV.

The Forpost-RE can be equipped with various payloads, enabling reconnaissance in both optical and radar ranges, as well as the use of various airborne weapons. Additionally, an airborne radio relay can be installed onboard, providing communications over a long distance from the control center across the entire aviation frequency range.

The UAV is equipped with two removable pylons for externally mounted special payloads on the wing center section. These weapons comprise aerial bombs, including guided bombs, with a mass up to 40 kg. Hypothetically, an FPV drone could be used as a special payload. The choice of special payloads is determined by the customer’s needs.

According to an UZGA representative, if foreign customers require it, the plant’s specialists are ready to equip the complex with new payloads that interest the buyer.

Photo by N. Novichkov