Supercam Skat-350M UAV

The Skat-350M is a serially produced, light-class reconnaissance UAV manufactured by Kalashnikov Concern (specifically associated with its Unmanned Aviation Systems division). According to Kalashnikov, the Skat-350M is a direct, modernized development of the Supercam 350 UAV. The manufacturer states that the upgrades include improved airframe aerodynamics and a modernized ground control system based on operational feedback. The system made its international debut at the World Defense Show (WDS) 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and was subsequently presented at the ADEX-2024 exhibition in Azerbaijan.

The aircraft utilizes a "flying wing" aerodynamic layout. It is powered by a low-noise electric motor driving a front-mounted (puller) three-blade propeller. The UAV is launched via a catapult system and recovered using a parachute, which can be deployed in automatic or semi-automatic modes.

• Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 14 to 15 kg
• Payload Capacity: Approximately 2.5 kg
• Wingspan: 3.2 to 3.5 meters (Note: Slight variations exist between Kalashnikov's expo representatives and published technical databases).
• Flight Endurance: Up to 4 hours
• Speed: 65–120 km/h
• Communication/Video Link Range: 70 to 100 km
• Maximum Flight Altitude: Up to 6,000 meters

The Skat-350M is designed for day and night intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR). Its primary payload is a spherical, gyro-stabilized electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) camera system mounted beneath the central fuselage. Kalashnikov states that the modernized payload module includes updated algorithms designed to assist the operator in automatically capturing and tracking targets.

To operate in contested airspace, the manufacturer claims the ground control station (NPPU) utilizes a wide range of operating frequencies across 32 communication channels, which is intended to provide resilience against electronic warfare (EW) interference.

Military: Russian state media and Kalashnikov confirm the Skat-350M is actively deployed by Russian forces in Ukraine. Its primary military role is front-line aerial reconnaissance, target acquisition, and coordinating strikes for artillery and aerospace forces. (Note: Specific claims regarding the destruction of Ukrainian RM-70 MLRS or Western armor are reported by the Russian MoD and Kalashnikov as combat successes, though independent visual confirmation of the drone's specific role in those individual strikes is difficult to verify). Dual-Use/Civilian: Kalashnikov also markets the platform for non-combat roles, including border patrol, law enforcement, search and rescue, environmental monitoring, and the inspection of critical infrastructure such as oil pipelines and offshore platforms. It is also capable of aerial photography for cartographic mapping.

More Info:

• EDR Online - Skat-350