Russia’s new jet-powered Geran-4 and Geran-5 drones are reshaping the air war over Ukraine, evading defenses at higher rates than older propeller models. These drones have struck government buildings, nearly hit President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s plane, and ignited warehouses and ports. The surge in launches — reaching a record 2,800 in August — follows Kyiv’s own long-range strikes on Russian oil refineries.

Experts note Russia’s ability to develop and deploy advanced weapons at scale marks a shift from its costly, slow battlefield advances. The Geran-5, flying at up to 600km/h with a 90kg warhead, features AI targeting, thermal cameras, and anti-jamming tech. Ukraine’s air force reports near-continuous launches since late August, bringing daytime strikes to Kyiv.

Two people died after petrol station attacks Zelenskyy called “increasingly terrorist.” Russia has lost 1.5 million military casualties to gain just 2% of Ukraine’s territory since January 2023. Tehran reportedly sought advanced Geran drones from Moscow for use against Israel and the U.S.