cover image

Orlan-10

Russian unmanned aerial vehicle / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Dear Wikiwand AI, let's keep it short by simply answering these key questions:

Can you list the top facts and stats about Orlan-10?

Summarize this article for a 10 years old

SHOW ALL QUESTIONS

The Orlan-10 (Russian: Орлан-10) is a reconnaissance, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by the Special Technology Center (STC) in Saint Petersburg for the Russian Armed Forces.[8][9] The Orlan-10 features a composite fuselage that reduces its radar signature.[10]

Quick facts: Orlan-10, Role, National origin, Manufacturer...
Orlan-10
Orlan-10_UAV_Army-2022_2022-08-20_2475.jpg
An Orlan-10 on display in 2022
Role Reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle
National origin Russia
Manufacturer Special Technology Center (STC)
Introduction 2011
Status In service
Primary users Russian Ground Forces
Ministry of Emergency Situations (Russia)[1]
Tatmadaw[2]
Kazakhstan State Committee for National Security[3][4]
Armed Forces of Kazakhstan[5]
Wagner Group[6]
Number built >1,500 drones[7]
Close

Drones are usually deployed in groups of two or three; the first is used for reconnaissance at a height of 1,000 to 1,500 metres (3,300 to 4,900 ft), the second for electronic warfare and the third as a data relay.[11] One system can include up to five vehicles.[12] The price for one system (including 2 drones, a portable launch complex, a control station and a set of spare parts) is reportedly 5 million rubles, or ~US$160,000 (FY 2013).[13]

Over 50 UAVs were delivered for export in 2021 to Russia's allies.[14] It has seen action in Ukraine, Syria, Libya and Nagorno-Karabakh.[15][16] According to media reports, an updated variant of Orlan-10 tactical UAV was to enter service with the Russia's ground forces in 2020. The updated variant is expected to have a laser designator to allow it to pinpoint targets for precision-guided artillery and aircraft munitions.[17]

More than 1,000 Orlan-10s have been produced (2018), with 11 different variations.[18] More Orlan-10s and 30s were ordered in August 2022.[19]

It was reported in May 2023 that STMicroelectronics microchips are found in the electronic circuits of Orlan drones, in spite of the semiconductor sanctions regime that the Russians imposed on themselves.[20]