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On the South Slobozhanskyi axis, border guard units of the 4th detachment continue efforts to degrade Russian reconnaissance capabilities. Operators of the “STRIX” reconnaissance and strike unmanned aerial systems, operating within Ukraine’s Defense Forces, detected and intercepted a rare Russian reconnaissance UAV, the “Skat-450M,” using a STING interceptor drone. This was reported by Wild Hornets, which develops interceptor drones. Video footage of the engagement was also released by the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.
According to border guard reports, systems such as the “Skat-450M” are used for deep aerial reconnaissance, detection of Defense Forces positions, artillery fire correction, and targeting for strikes, including those involving Iskander ballistic missile systems. According to Wild Hornets, the downed UAV was equipped with optical and thermal imaging systems designed for long-range reconnaissance and strike coordination. It is also noted that only an estimated 10 to 20 such drones have been destroyed over the course of the war.
UAVs of the “Skat” family are used by Russian forces for aerial reconnaissance and surveillance. Equipped with optical and thermal imaging sensors, they are capable of detecting and tracking targets under various conditions, including limited visibility and nighttime operations. In practice, such systems play a significant role in supporting long-range strike capabilities. By identifying targets and transmitting coordinates, reconnaissance drones like the “Skat” improve the accuracy of missile strikes against both stationary and moving targets.
Open-source information on the “Skat-450M” variant remains limited, and it is considered one of the less documented reconnaissance systems in Russian service. The UAV is reported to feature a non-standard airframe design, including a wing shape intended to reduce radar visibility while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. The structure also minimizes protruding elements, lowering the risk of damage during landing, particularly when using a parachute recovery system. It is designed to operate across a wide temperature range, from −45°C to 45°C, enabling use in diverse climatic conditions.
Its role in supporting targeting for Iskander strikes makes the “Skat-450M” a high-priority target. The estimated cost of such a UAV is around $400,000, and its loss represents a notable setback, as it reduces the opponent’s ability to conduct deep reconnaissance and decreases strike accuracy.
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Souece: defence-blog