Kalashnikov Concern, the prominent Russian manufacturer recognized for the AK-47 assault rifle, is preparing to showcase its ‘battle-tested’ drones for the first time at an international exhibition.
The company will present unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) 2025, taking place in Abu Dhabi from February 17 to 21.
IDEX is considered one of the most significant tri-service defense exhibitions globally, organized by Capital Events with the full support of the UAE Armed Forces. The event is held under the patronage of Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of its military.
As drones become a key focus, Kalashnikov will join around 20 other Russian defense companies at the exhibition.
The manufacturer has stated that the drones, tested in the “NVO zone”—a term used by Russia to describe military operations in Ukraine—will be showcased alongside other sophisticated military and surveillance technologies.
The Goliath-R and Karakurt-R UAVs, both capable of vertical take-off and landing, will be displayed in their civilian versions. Furthermore, the company will feature the Quazimachta, an advanced aerial platform designed for extended electronic payload missions.
This initiative by Kalashnikov is part of a larger strategy to establish itself as a significant contender in the field of unmanned combat and reconnaissance systems.
The company has officially unveiled its KUB-SM reconnaissance and strike drone at the Abu Dhabi exhibition, alongside the launch of the KUB-2-E, a sophisticated loitering munition tailored for export markets.
As Russia increasingly utilizes UAV technology in the conflict in Ukraine, Kalashnikov’s participation in IDEX 2025 represents a strategic initiative to enhance its defense exports.
This event will serve as a platform for the company to engage potential buyers, fortify partnerships, and demonstrate the effectiveness of its drone technologies.
Goliath-R, Karakurt-R, and Quazimachta UAVs
The three unmanned aerial vehicles set to be showcased in Abu Dhabi have undergone rigorous testing in combat over the past two years. Their use in the Ukraine conflict has yielded valuable insights from frontline troops.
In response to this feedback, the company has announced that it has implemented system upgrades aimed at enhancing the capabilities of these UAVs.
The Goliath-R and Karakurt-R UAVs are designed with vertical take-off and landing capabilities, making them suitable for a variety of missions.
The Goliath-R is a compact and adaptable UAV, capable of operating in densely populated urban areas, which positions it well for search-and-rescue missions, intelligence collection, and security surveillance.
It is offered in two configurations: a case designed to accommodate six drones and a standalone case for a single drone. Both configurations feature an integrated recharging system that facilitates rapid deployment and on-site recharging.
The Karakurt-R is a mini-UAV compact enough to fit in a pocket, engineered for swift field deployment. It can be launched from a tube-like container in mere seconds.
This “micro-reconnaissance drone” is tailored for user-friendliness in tight spaces. The Karakurt is equipped with a compact launch container, enhancing its effectiveness in field operations where speed and agility are crucial.
In addition to its real-time reconnaissance functions, the Karakurt provides versatile launch options and integrates smoothly with existing communication systems.
Operators who have evaluated the drone indicate that its performance and agility meet the current requirements of the Russian armed forces in high-intensity combat situations.
The Goliath and Karakurt copter-type systems are capable of conducting continuous aerial reconnaissance, delivering real-time 3D data while capturing and tracking targets as directed by the operator. In cases of signal loss, the drones automatically return to their base until a stable connection is restored.
Conversely, the Quazimachta serves as a high-altitude aerial platform designed for extended electronic payload operations.
The Quazimachta distinguishes itself from traditional drones by offering 24/7 surveillance in both optical and infrared wavelengths, allowing for uninterrupted monitoring of specified regions. This UAV is capable of relaying real-time information to ground control stations.
Initially introduced at the Army 2023 Military and Technical Forum, the drone has since received multiple enhancements, including a longer power cable, which was implemented based on operator feedback to enhance its operational capabilities.
Discover more from Defence Talks | Defense News Hub, Military Updates, Security Insights
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
