Порівняльний аналіз конструктивно-технічних особливостей безпілотних літальних апаратів «Герань-2» та «Герань-3»

Abstract

The article presents a comparative analysis of the design and technical features of the Geran-2 and Geran-3 UAVs. The object of the study is the strike-type Geran-2 series UAVs used in modern combat operations. The subject of the study is the design and technical features of the Geran-2 series UAVs (hereinafter «Geran-2») and the Geran-3 series UAVs (hereinafter «Geran-3»), their engineering solutions, functional systems, and the impact of upgrades on combat effectiveness.

The analysis shows that the Geran-3 is a logical evolution of the Geran-2 platform: the basic aerodynamic scheme (delta wing) and the unified technological production standards at the Alabuz plant have been preserved, while a number of significant changes were made to increase speed, endurance, and navigation stability. Structural differences include an enlarged mounting point for the warhead, an added air intake, and a revised powerplant mount — changes that simplify installation and allow integration of different types of munitions. The airframes of both models are made from the same composite materials, providing a balance of strength and low weight.

A key engineering transformation is the transition from the «MD550» piston internal-combustion engine in the Geran-2 to the «Telefly» turbojet engine in the Geran-3. This enables significantly higher speed performance, but is accompanied by an increased thermal signature, reduced flight range. The Geran-3 fuel system includes a high-pressure pump with automatic feed control; high fuel consumption in full-thrust mode reduces the operational radius.

The control system retains the original control units and stabilization algorithms, but a conversion module has been added to integrate the new engine, indicating adaptation of the existing software-and-hardware complex. The power supply uses a segregated scheme: separate circuits for the control systems and for the turbojet engine. An additional battery for the video system increases energy stability and reduces the risk of loss of control during overloads.

The navigation system has been upgraded by using a new CRPA block, «Cometa», with 16 or 12 patches, improving receiver sensitivity and resistance to electronic warfare and spoofing. Integration of GNSS, an inertial measurement unit, and a barometer provides high guidance accuracy even with partial signal loss. A significant innovation in the Geran-3 is the presence of a MIMO mesh modem (Xingkaitech XK-F359), which enables video transmission up to 70 km line-of-sight and, when connected to networks and ground gateways, theoretically unlimited transmission range.

The conclusions highlight the engineering trade-offs: Geran-3 offers higher speed, but reduces flight range and creates new vulnerabilities (thermal detection). The tactical consequence is a shift in use from massed Geran-2 attacks to more targeted high-speed Geran-3 strikes, which are harder to intercept by traditional air-defense systems. The article provides a comprehensive technical justification for these changes and a basis for further risk assessment and countermeasures.