Russian Shahed-Type Drone Outfitted with MANPADS and Warhead: Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground Attack Capability

C/O Futures Weaponized Drone Research Note Series

Robert J. Bunker

26 January 2026

In early January 2026, a Russian Shahed-like UAS outfitted with a MANPADS launcher carrying a guided missile has been reported recovered after it crashed. This development builds upon the early December 2025 deployment of an air-to-air missile on a Russian UAS. The intent of the initial air-to-air missile—and more practical follow on MANPADS—attachments on these weaponized UAS is to provide them the capability to forward engage manned Ukrainian helicopters (and aircraft). After the launch of their single missile, the MANPADs carrying UAS version may then be utilized in a ground-attack mode detonating their warhead on impact like a conventionally armed Shahed-like UAS.

Shahed Russian MANPADS UAS CO Futures.pdf

Download PDF • 11.76MB