The Russians are developing a kamikaze drone launched from a pipe that shares features with the American Switchblade loitering munition.

This was reported by the Russian publication TASS.

Work on the loitering munition, called Vector-120, is now at the stage of developing individual elements and units.

The development is carried out by the Development Design Office for Unmanned Aeronautical Engineering.

“We plan to reach the stage of flight tests in 2024. The device will be launched from a disposable launch tube,” the designers say.

It is reported that the drone will be able to carry a 220-250 grams warhead.

“This is enough to exceed the striking effect of RGD-5, F-1 grenades or compete with the RPG-7,” they add.

By comparison, the warhead of the American Switchblade 300 is equivalent to a 40mm grenade.

The drone is designed to defeat vehicles, light armored vehicles and manpower.

“We will not target tanks, but with accurate and high-quality control, a good operator will be able to drive a drone into the upper protection of the tank engine compartment,” the DDO said.

The manufacturer reveals certain technical characteristics: the length of the tube is 90 cm, the diameter is 10 cm, the weight together with the loitering munition is 2.8 kg.

When deployed, the Vector-120 has a wingspan of 1.2 m. The maximum drone speed is about 200 km/h. The maximum time in the air is about 30 minutes, which is three times more than the Switchblade 300.

The designers do not disclose the appearance of the launcher and the loitering munition itself.

According to the DDO, the launch of the drone will not require special training, and will be able to launch from any position.

Iran has previously shown a copy of the American Switchblade 300, called Meraj-521.