Geran-4 Gets Russian Engine and New Navigation System — DIU

Russia’s Geran-4 jet-powered drone has received a locally produced engine and a new optical navigation system.

The Defense Intelligence of Ukraine reported this on the War&Sanctions portal.

Russian forces began using an upgraded version of this UAV in the fall of this year.

New Design Features of the Geran-4

Magneto-Inductive Sensor

A new MOKH module based on the high-precision PNI5GA magneto-inductive sensor manufactured by U.S. company PNI Sensor has been integrated into the Geran-4 design.

The sensor operates together with the SADRA inertial module, reducing gyroscope drift and improving the accuracy of autonomous navigation.

In addition to satellite and inertial navigation, the enemy has added the Susanin electro-optical correlation system.

It compares images from an optical sensor with a reference image stored in the computer’s memory to adjust the route from the launch point to the target.

Local Production of the Geran-4 Engine

Instead of the Chinese Telefly TF-TJ2000A turbojet engine, Russians installed a locally produced equivalent manufactured in Alabuga.

According to Oboronka, engines assembled in Russia undergo additional testing and modifications due to poor manufacturing quality in China. Among the debris, investigators found a turbocharger impeller with Russian markings and drilled holes for weight balancing. Such modifications reduce the centrifugal force acting on the component at high rotational speeds and lower vibrations that can lead to engine failure.

Shaped-Charge Cutting Warhead

To effectively strike bridge structures and power transmission line towers, the enemy has equipped the drone with a new KRSN shaped-charge cutting warhead.

The remaining electronic modules and components of the UAV remain identical to those used in previous versions of the Geran drones.

Geran-4

The Geran-4 jet-powered attack UAV features a flying-wing aerodynamic configuration and is designed to strike targets at medium and long ranges. The fuselage is approximately 3 meters long, the wingspan exceeds 2.5 meters, and the launch weight is estimated at 200–250 kg, with a warhead weighing up to 50 kg.

The drone is equipped with a turbojet engine that enables it to reach a flight speed of 400–500 km/h and provides an effective range of 400–600 km. Its onboard control system combines satellite navigation, an inertial module, a magnetometric unit, and an electro-optical correction system for autonomous guidance to the target.