Ukraine’s Intelligence Reveals Details of Russia’s New Geran-4 Drone Powered by Chinese Engines

Russia’s New Geran-4 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle

According to Главком: The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense has disclosed information about Russia’s latest jet-powered attack drone, the Geran-4. Moscow began deploying this new system in May 2026. The aircraft features Chinese-made engines, an entirely new airframe, and impressive specifications: a top speed of 500 km/h, an operational altitude of 5 km, a warhead capacity of either 50 or 90 kg, and a flight range of up to 450 km.

Initial test launches of the new UAV were conducted from the Primorsk drone base in Russia’s Oryol region and from the site of the former Donetsk airport. The War&Sanctions portal has also published an interactive 3D model of the drone, its component parts, and details about its foreign-made parts supply chain.

Design Upgrades and Technical Specs

What has changed in the Geran-4’s design? The new drone features a separate airframe with improved aerodynamics, reinforced construction, and a more powerful turbojet engine. Its wings are now permanently attached to the center section, and the number of access panels on the fuselage has been reduced to lower air resistance. The UAV uses two types of Chinese turbojet engines:

• Telefly LX-WP-160 with 160 kgf of thrust
• Telefly TF-TJ2000A with 200 kgf of thrust

The drone’s performance and combat capabilities are formidable. The Geran-4 can perform active maneuvers at speeds of 300–400 km/h, with a maximum flight speed reaching 500 km/h. Its flight ceiling is 5,000 meters. The UAV can deliver a 50 or 90 kg warhead over a distance of up to 450 km. The onboard control system and electronic component base remain identical to those used in previous drones manufactured by the Alabuga Special Economic Zone enterprise.

On the night of May 24, Russia launched one of its most massive combined attacks on Kyiv, using various types of missiles and hundreds of drones, including the Geran-4. Residential buildings, civilian infrastructure, and vehicles in the capital were damaged. This underscores the growing threats posed by new military technologies.

The introduction of the Geran-4 drone highlights the escalation of hostilities and the dangers facing Ukraine. Given its powerful specifications and maneuverability, this drone could become a key element in Russia’s strategy. It also signals a trend toward integrating cutting-edge technology into armed conflicts, demanding heightened readiness from Ukraine’s defense forces.

As the Geran-4 drone enhances Russia's aerial capabilities, it is essential to note the recent advancements in Ukraine's defense technology. In a significant development, Ukrainian interceptor drones have successfully targeted and destroyed Russian UAVs, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict. Understanding these dynamics provides deeper insight into the evolving battlefield landscape.