Orlan-20 Drone – Technical Specifications and Information
Manufacturer
The Orlan-20 is developed and manufactured by the Russian company Special Technology Center (STC) based in Saint Petersburg. This company is known for its advanced technologies in the field of unmanned aerial systems (Wikipedia) (Islamic World News).
Technical Specifications
- Type: Unmanned aerial system for reconnaissance and electronic warfare
- Wingspan: 3.1 meters
- Length: 2 meters
- Maximum takeoff weight: 16.5 kg
- Payload capacity: 6 kg
- Maximum speed: 150 km/h
- Flight duration: Up to 16 hours
- Range: Up to 600 km (in autonomous mode), operational range 140 km
- Maximum flight altitude: 5000 meters
- Engine type: Saito FA-62B single-cylinder four-stroke gasoline engine, power 0.75 kW (1 hp)
- Operating temperature range: from -30°C to +40°C (Spec Ops Magazine) (Wikipedia) (Islamic World News).
Design and Functionality
The Orlan-20 features a modular design with a high-wing configuration, a composite hull to reduce radar signature, and is equipped with a folding catapult for launch and a parachute system for recovery. The drone can carry various interchangeable payloads, including daylight and thermal cameras, a video camera, and a radio transmitter. It is also equipped with electronic warfare capabilities and can interfere with enemy communication signals (Spec Ops Magazine) (Wikipedia).
Usage and History
The Orlan-20 has been in service with the Russian armed forces since 2010 and has been actively deployed in conflicts in Ukraine, Syria, Libya, and Nagorno-Karabakh. Its main tasks include reconnaissance, surveillance, and terrain mapping, but it can also be used for electronic warfare and supporting humanitarian convoys (Spec Ops Magazine) (Wikipedia) (Islamic World News).
Predecessors and Successors
The Orlan-20 is an improved version of its predecessor, the Orlan-10, which is known for its wide range of applications in various military operations. The Orlan-20 offers higher payload capacity and longer flight duration, increasing its effectiveness in combat conditions (Wikipedia).
Price
The exact price of the Orlan-20 drone is not publicly available, but given its advanced technologies and military applications, it is expected to be a costly system, similar to its predecessors.
