Orlan-30

Orlan-30 is a fixed-wing reconnaissance and target-designation UAV built by Russia's Special Technology Center, a larger derivative of the Orlan-10 fitted with an optional laser designator for guiding precision weapons and correcting artillery fire.

Overview

Special Technology Center (STC) developed Orlan-30 as a scaled-up version of its earlier Orlan-10 reconnaissance drone, underwent testing in 2019 and introduced the type in 2020. Its principal addition over the Orlan-10 is an optional laser rangefinder/designator, which lets the aircraft illuminate ground targets to guide other precision-guided weapons and correct artillery fire. An export version of Orlan-30 was first presented in August 2023.

Design and capabilities

Wikipedia gives Orlan-30 a maximum take-off weight of 27 kg and a payload capacity of up to 8 kg, larger than the Orlan-10 it is derived from. Detailed figures for its endurance, range, speed and service ceiling have not been confirmed against a manufacturer or other authoritative source.

Operational history

The Russian Armed Forces ordered Orlan-10 and Orlan-30 drones together in August 2022, and in July 2023 Russia's defense minister said deliveries of the two types had risen sharply since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Russian forces have used Orlan-30 for reconnaissance and artillery-fire correction in that conflict.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Orlan-30?

Orlan-30 is a Russian fixed-wing reconnaissance UAV built by the Special Technology Center, a larger version of the Orlan-10 with an optional laser designator.

What does the laser designator on the Orlan-30 do?

It illuminates ground targets so other precision-guided weapons can home in on them, and supports correcting artillery fire onto a target.

How much can the Orlan-30 carry?

Wikipedia gives a payload capacity of up to 8 kg, within a maximum take-off weight of 27 kg.

Who operates the Orlan-30?

The Russian Armed Forces operate Orlan-30, which they have used for reconnaissance and artillery-fire correction in Russia's war against Ukraine.