UMEX 2026 – Rostec State Corporation presents Lightning family UAVs

Rostec State Corporation presented its latest line of Lightning multi-purpose unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the first time in Abu Dhabi. These UAVs can be used for a several tasks, from reconnaissance and cargo delivery to search and rescue operations and border protection

As Unmanned Systems representatives (the company is part of the Technodinamika concern of the Rostec State Corporation) explained to EDR On-Line, the Lightning UAV family includes three models: the Lightning 2, Lightning P, and Lightning R.

All of these UAVs feature a standard aerodynamic design, a mid-mounted trapezoidal wing with a span of 1.82 meters, and a fuselage length of 1.63 meters. An onboard battery powers two electric motors fitted with two-blade propellers.

The Lightning 2 UAV is designed for small cargo delivery, emergency situation assessment, and operators training. It can carry a payload of up to 6 kg, while its range at a speed of 140 km/h reaches almost 50 km.

The Lightning P UAV is designed for monitoring, controlling, and surveying large surfaces of terrain. Compared to other UAVs in its family, this aircraft boasts a maximum flight speed of up to 270 km/h.

The Lightning R UAV is designed for day/night monitoring in various climatic conditions. It is equipped with a stabilised camera with a 30x hybrid zoom, enabling surveillance while maneuvering. The Lightning R UAV has a takeoff weight of 12 kg and a flight time of 40 minutes.

The UAVs belonging to the Lightning family presented at UMEX 2026 were proposed as dual-use systems. At the same time, Russian media reports indicate that these aircraft are actively used in combat operations due to their low cost of mass production, increased range and payload capacity, and ease of operation, which allow for the use of Lightnings in large numbers, overwhelming enemy air defense systems. The drones are capable of striking rear-area targets at tactical depth, including command posts, artillery installations, and armoured vehicles. Depending on specific combat missions, drones can be equipped with different types of ammunition.

Photos by N. Novichkov