Ukraine has transformed Airpract A-22 aircraft into long-range drones for blows to the Russian Federation (photo)

According to a diagram, published by a military expert, Chak Pharruer on the social network X. In April 2024, these two modified UAVs were used for strikes in Tatarstan, located more than 1200 kilometers from the border with Ukraine. The drones were targeted at the ShahED-136 and refining plant. It was the first documented use of such an aircraft in the region, distant from the front line.

The strikes showed Ukraine's opportunities to attack critically important infrastructure in the enemy territory. Airpract A-22 was developed by Ukrainian engineer Yuri Yakovlev, it was a popular up-to-date aircraft in amateur aviation since its appearance in 1999. The plane is equipped with a Rotax engine with a capacity of 80 to 100 k/s, the maximum flight range is 1100 km. Such characteristics made it possible to make a drone with A-22, which required significant modifications.

Optional components - seats, internal panels and manual control systems - were probably removed to reduce weight and create space for additional fuel tanks and explosive cargoes, says Army Recognition. To maintain the increased load, structural intensification, especially fuselage and wings, needed. An important update was to expand the Flight range A-22.

Initially, it was 1100 km, special modifications allowed him to exceed 1200 km, which made it possible to attack deep into the Russian territory. Such improvement probably provided additional fuel tanks. Advanced navigation and management systems were also important, which provided accurate trajectory management even in the conditions of HR.

Far communication systems, potentially encrypted, have made it possible to keep in touch with team centers - hence the possibility of adjusting real -time missions. Other systems have been added to work at high risk, which allow you to change the course in case of failure of the main system. For combat missions, A-22 was equipped with a specialized compartment for transportation of up to 90 kg of explosives.