The Russian Ministry of Defense has released new material this week detailing the functionality and capabilities of the Molniya-2 tactical drone, used in both reconnaissance and strike missions. The footage includes testimony from a senior UAV operator with the callsign “Garik,” who explained the drone’s assembly process and operational potential.
According to Garik, the Molniya-2 is made from simple materials such as foam, plastic tubes, and aluminum. Its modular design allows the fuselage, wings, and tail to be delivered separately and assembled directly in the field. “We assemble it and install the payload. The payloads vary – shaped charges, fragmentation, and thermobaric warheads,” the operator explained.
The drone can reach speeds of up to 120 km/h with an operational range of up to 60 kilometers, and flies at altitudes of 300 to 400 meters. Its simplicity and adaptability make the Molniya-2 an effective tool for frontline units.
According to military sources, only two days of training are required for soldiers to learn how to independently assemble and operate the Molniya-2 – making it ideal for use in resource-constrained and mobile tactical environments.
