Russian Orlan-10 Drone

Manufacturer: Special Technological Center
Category: Attack & Multirole Drones (UAVs)
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Maximum Speed 120 km/h
Endurance 16 hours
Operational Range 120 km
Payload Capacity 6–12 kg

Full Specifications

1. General Information

Name	Orlan-10
Manufacturer	Special Technological Center
Country of Origin	Russia
Type / Role	Reconnaissance / Electronic Warfare UAV
First Flight / Introduced	2010
Status	In Service
Unit Cost	Approx. USD 50,000

2. Performance

Maximum Speed	120 km/h
Cruise Speed	100 km/h
Operational Range	120 km
Endurance	16 hours
Service Ceiling	5,000 m
Rate of Climb	N/A

3. Dimensions

Length	1.4 m
Wingspan	3 m
Height	0.45 m
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	14 kg

4. Payload & Armament

Payload Capacity	6–12 kg
Weapons	None
Sensors	EO/IR Cameras, EW Payloads
Avionics	GPS/INS, Data Link

5. Propulsion

Engine Type	Electric Motor
Engine Power	N/A
Propeller Type	Two-Blade Propeller

6. Communication & Control

Control Type	Remote / Semi-Autonomous
Data Link Range	120 km
Navigation	GPS / INS
Ground Control Station	Mobile or Fixed

7. Operational Use

Primary Users	Russia, Russian-backed forces
Combat Proven	Yes
Notable Operations	Ukraine, Syria, Libya

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Combat Effectiveness 8 / 10
Operational Flexibility 8 / 10

PROS

Long endurance up to 16 hours
Modular payload for reconnaissance and EW missions
Compact and easily deployable
Proven combat record
Cost-effective compared to larger UAVs

CONS

Limited speed and maneuverability
Vulnerable to modern air defenses
Short operational range relative to strategic UAVs
Primarily unarmed
Susceptible to electronic countermeasures

Orlan-10 Tactical Recon Drone

The Orlan-10 is a compact, versatile unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for tactical reconnaissance, surveillance, and electronic warfare. Developed by Russia’s Special Technological Center, it has been widely deployed by Russian armed forces since 2010. The drone offers a combination of long endurance, modular payload options, and reliable operational performance for modern battlefield missions.

Primarily used for intelligence, target acquisition, and real-time battlefield monitoring, the Orlan-10 has become a key asset in electronic warfare operations, including jamming and signals intelligence. Its modular design allows the drone to carry various sensors, cameras, and electronic payloads depending on mission requirements.

With a maximum flight range of up to 120 km and an endurance of approximately 16 hours, the Orlan-10 provides extensive coverage for tactical units. The drone cruises at speeds around 120 km/h, with a service ceiling near 5,000 meters. It is launched using a catapult and recovered via parachute, enabling rapid deployment in diverse environments.

Equipped with electro-optical and infrared cameras, the Orlan-10 Drone can provide real-time video feeds to ground control stations. Its compact size and lightweight frame make it suitable for operations in urban and rugged terrains. While it is primarily unarmed, its integration with electronic warfare payloads enhances its battlefield effectiveness by disrupting enemy communications and radar systems.

The UAV has been widely documented in combat operations in Syria, Ukraine, and Libya, demonstrating adaptability in contested environments. Its relatively low unit cost and operational simplicity make it a practical choice for reconnaissance-focused missions where quick situational awareness is essential.

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