At the IDEX 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, Russia officially presents the X-UAV guided missile, an air-to-air weapon designed for remote launch from drones and helicopters, providing autonomous and precision strike capabilities against aerial and ground targets. Developed by the Tula Instrument Design Bureau (KBP), this missile is part of a strategic shift in modern weaponry, where artificial intelligence and unmanned aerial vehicles play an increasing role in military operations.
Also designated as the Kh-BPLA, the X-UAV is compatible with various aerial platforms, including the Orion and Forpost drones, as well as the Ka-52M attack helicopter. Its ability to engage airborne threats enhances the defensive and offensive capabilities of Russian UAVs. By integrating into unmanned systems, it enables precise strikes against low-altitude aerial targets while also being capable of engaging lightly armored or unprotected ground units.
Weighing 32 kg without a container and 42 kg when fully configured, the X-UAV uses a reflected laser beam guidance system, ensuring accuracy even in challenging combat conditions. It has an operational range between 2 and 8 kilometers, with a maximum launch altitude of 4,000 meters and an engagement angle of ±10 degrees. These characteristics provide operational flexibility, allowing drones to intercept aerial threats or engage ground targets as required.
The missile features an interchangeable warhead, allowing adaptation to different mission requirements. It includes a 6 kg high-explosive (HEF) warhead designed to inflict significant damage on aerial targets and a 3.2 kg thermobaric variant effective against fortified positions or concentrations of personnel. This modularity allows for optimized strikes based on operational needs.