On March 5, 2024, a new video shared on Russian military channels on Telegram (@СОЛОВЬЁВ) claims to showcase the mass production of Shahed attack drones, designed by Iran, inside Russia. While the authenticity of the video is yet to be confirmed, it is not necessarily indicative of an increase in drone attacks. Indeed, it may be more of a communication operation than a novelty, given Russia’s existing commitment to develop its own drone production industry.
The Shahed drones have a wingspan of 2.5 meters and are known as “mopeds” due to the sound of the engine, which approaches speeds of about 160 km/h. The drone carries an explosive payload of approximately 45 kg, and while typical targets include electrical substations and transformers, they can cause devastating damage to apartment buildings.
More than 4,400 Shahed attacks have been documented in the war in Ukraine so far, averaging more than 240 per month. This makes them far more common than any Russian long-range weapon. Their relatively low cost and ease of production compared to cruise and ballistic missiles have made Shaheds now the cornerstone of Russia’s strategic campaign.