Interpolitex 2024 – Kalashnikov unveils its Goliaf and Karakurt mini-UAVs
At Interpolitex 2024, the international exhibition of security systems that took place recently in Moscow, the Kalashnikov Concern presented its small-sized vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) Goliaf and Karakurt
The Goliaf is a reconnaissance and attack mini-UAV, while the Karakurt is a purely reconnaissance small-sized drone.
The copter-type systems Goliaf and Karakurt, pictured here, are designed to conduct aerial reconnaissance at any time of the day, obtaining 3D data in real time, and to capture and track a target upon operator’s command. If the signal is lost, the drones turn around and fly to base until stable communication is restored. These VTOL mini-drones have a robust design and a high level of protection from external interferences, which makes their operation reliable in almost any weather conditions,” EDR On-Line was told at the company’s stand.
Both UAVs can be used in dense urban areas for search and rescue operations and operational-search activities. A special feature of the Karakurt is its ability to be launched in a limited space from a compact transport and launch tube container, fitted with a special ejection spring. This container has a special USB port through which the drone’s battery can be recharged from a standard power source. This device was included in the third-generation combat gear developed by Kalashnikov, known as Legionary.
Kalashnikov noted that the latest small-sized UAVs have successfully passed testing in the special military operation zone. Both devices are designed for reconnaissance, and the Goliaf mini-UAV can also be used to strike with VOG-17 grenade launcher rounds weighing up to 500 g. For this purpose, the lower part of the airframe is fitted with a device for dropping suspended ammunition.
No official information on the tactical and technical characteristics of the new drones was provided at the Kalashnikov stand. However a company source told EDR On-Line that the Goliaf, pictured here, weighs about 400 g, its payload is 500 g, its flight time is 40 minutes, its flight speed is 30-50 km/h, its operating altitude is 400 metres, and its flight range is up to 4 km. The quadcopter’s electric motors are powered by a lithium-polymer battery. As for the Karakurt mini-UAV, it weighs 400 g, its flight time is 25 minutes, and its flight range is 1.5-2.0 km. Both mini-UAVs are controlled by a unified control panel.
Photos courtesy Kalashnikov and N. Morris
