Mysterious Russian drone spotted in combat zone

Russia has begun fielding a previously unseen type of drone over Ukraine, featuring an unusual ring-wing design likely aimed at improving aerial endurance and strike capabilities, according to a Ukrainian military electronic warfare specialist.

Serhiy Beskrestnov, also known by his callsign “Serhiy Flesh,” said in a public statement that Russian forces have started using drones with a closed wing configuration, more specifically an annular or ring-wing structure, during operations targeting Ukrainian military assets.

He noted that these drones were recently observed operating in Ukrainian airspace and appear to be designed for both reconnaissance interception and ground attack roles.

The design reportedly incorporates a ring-shaped aerodynamic structure that encloses the frame of an FPV drone. This configuration, known in aerospace engineering as a closed wing or annular wing, may enhance lift characteristics while reducing wingspan, which in turn improves portability and potentially extends range.

While the exact type and manufacturer of these drones has not yet been confirmed, similar ring-wing drone designs have previously been displayed by Russian state-aligned media. These were attributed to a company named “Shag vpered” (Step Forward), located in the Yelets District of Russia’s Lipetsk Region.

The models seen in earlier promotional materials include the “Kometa” (Comet) drone series. According to open-source information and previous Russian demonstrations, there are at least two variants of the Kometa: one built as an aerial interceptor using kinetic methods to disable opposing drones, and a larger version with a range of 50+ km intended for strike missions against ground targets, reportedly armed with an explosive payload.

It remains unclear how widespread the deployment of these new drones is or how effective they have proven in operational conditions. Ukrainian officials have not issued a formal statement on the system’s combat performance.