Russian S-70 Okhotnik Drone Incident Raises Questions on Stealth Capabilities

The Russian S-70 Okhotnik drone incident on October 5, 2024, near Kostiantynivka, Kramatorsk district, is being scrutinized after it was shot down by a Russian fighter jet. The event unfolded approximately 15 to 20 kilometers from the front line, where the drone was reportedly operating in a mission against ground targets. Following its downing, evidence of a UMPB D-30SN glide bomb was discovered at the crash site, hinting at the drone’s operational role as a standoff bomber designed to deploy precision-guided munitions.

The UMPB D-30, an aerial munition developed from the FAB-250 bomb with satellite guidance, accommodates ranges between 50 and 90 kilometers. This discovery suggests Russian intentions to utilize the Okhotnik for engaging enemy positions from a safe distance. However, complications arose when it lost control and was ultimately shot down by a Su-57 fighter jet, according to circulating footage online. The Russian Aerospace Forces (RuAF) involvement showcases the deployment of heavy drones like the Okhotnik in the special operations area.

Reactions from Western defense analysts are mixed, as conflicting reports exist about the drone’s production status. While there are claims that the downed Okhotnik was a production model, confirmation is elusive. Sukhoi first flew the drone in 2019, and it conducted its maiden bomb drop two years later, but only two prototypes were built initially. Observers interpret this incident as Russia’s effort to supplement their military strategy with heavy strike UAVs, a notion supported by Telegram channel Fighterbomber.

The Okhotnik was allegedly designed to enhance Russia’s aerial strike capabilities by carrying internal weapon bays. Its stealth design, based on the flying-wing scheme using composite materials, purportedly reduces radar cross-section. Nonetheless, Ukrainian analysts who examined the wreckage reported a lack of stealth polymers on the drone, casting doubt on Russia’s claims about its stealth effectiveness.

In response to the drone’s crash, Russian forces reportedly fired an Iskander missile to obliterate the wreckage, underlining the high priority placed on preventing its recovery. However, Ukrainian forces had already salvaged intact components before the missile strike, leading experts to speculate that Western engineers could exploit this to understand the specific radar wavelengths the S-70 Okhotnik counters. Such insights could compromise the drone’s stealth capabilities, potentially undermining its operational utility.

This incident sheds light on broader concerns over Russian stealth technology, especially in light of previous assessments regarding the Su-57 fighter jet, a project closely associated with the S-70 drone. Observers have noted inadequacies in Russian radar-absorbing materials (RAM) and questioned the seamlessness needed for advanced stealth operations, further complicating Russia’s defense posture as hostilities continue in Ukraine.