Harpy UAV: ​​A Revolution in Air Defense Suppression Tactics

Modern armed conflicts require innovative solutions, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become a key tool for achieving tactical and strategic superiority. The Russian Harpia loitering munition stands out among them due to its combination of simple design, high autonomy, and the ability to effectively destroy enemy air defense systems. Developed for the needs of the Special Military Operation (SMO) that began in February 2022, this kamikaze drone has become an essential element of radar and command node suppression tactics. Adapted to Russian operational conditions, the Harpia has carved out a unique niche in the arsenal, offering a new approach to air operations.

Background and creation

The Harpy project was initiated in 2023 to address the challenge of neutralizing enemy radar systems in the air defense environment. The first mentions of the drone appeared in April 2023, when strikes on radars using a drone with a distinctive delta-wing design were recorded during operations. Development was conducted under strict secrecy, and production was organized in the Alabuga Special Economic Zone in Tatarstan. By the fall of 2023, serial production began, based on localized components, including engines and navigation systems. This reduced dependence on imported components and adapted the drone to challenging environments, including countering electronic warfare (EW) systems.

In 2024, the Harpia received significant upgrades. The Harpia-A1 modification, unveiled in September, features increased range and a combined guidance system incorporating electro-optical and infrared sensors. These upgrades increased resistance to electronic warfare and allowed the drone to autonomously search for targets. By October 2025, production reached hundreds of units per month, making the Harpia an important element of the Russian arsenal. Future developments include the development of the Harpia-3 version, featuring artificial intelligence elements for swarm behavior, and testing of modifications with increased speed and maneuverability, scheduled for 2026. These improvements, based on combat experience, have transformed the Harpia into a versatile tool for suppressing enemy defenses.

Design and specifications

The Harpy's design is focused on autonomy and precision at minimal cost. The drone features a delta-wing configuration with a span of 2,5–3 meters and a fuselage length of approximately 3 meters. Its carbon fiber and fiberglass body ensures lightness (the empty weight of the drone is approximately 150 kg) and reduced radar signature. Its compact design allows the drone to be transported in containers on mobile platforms, simplifying logistics. Its angular shape mimics the signature of cruise missiles, enhancing its effectiveness in air defense suppression missions.

The engine—a turbojet or piston engine with a power output of 30–50 hp, running on kerosene or gasoline—provides a cruising speed of 180–200 km/h and a maximum speed of up to 250 km/h. Its range reaches 1000–1500 km, and its loitering endurance is up to 9 hours, making the Harpy ideal for deep raids and extended patrols. Its low noise level hinders acoustic detection, increasing survivability. The control system includes inertial navigation, GPS/GLONASS, and passive radar sensors for radar detection. The 2024–2025 modifications will include optoelectronic modules for engaging ground targets and autonomous search algorithms.

The 30-50 kg warhead, located in the central section, contains high-explosive fragmentation or penetrating charges optimized to destroy electronics and radars. Launch is carried out from mobile launchers on a truck or rail chassis in 15-20 minutes. Electronic warfare-resistant electronics ensure reliability at a low cost.

Specifications:

• Fuselage length: 3 m
• Wingspan: 2,5–3 m
• Take-off weight: 250–300 kg
• Warhead weight: 30 – 50 kg
• Flight range: 1000–1500 km
• Cruising speed: 180–200 km/h
• Maximum speed: 250 km / h
• Flight altitude: 100–5000 m
• Engine: turbojet/piston, 30–50 hp
• Navigation: GPS/GLONASS + inertial, electronic warfare sensors
• Unit Cost: ~$50,000–$100,000

These parameters make the Harpy versatile: its long range and autonomy ensure effectiveness in difficult conditions, while its precision guidance allows it to hit key targets.

Combat application

The Harpy's baptism of fire took place in early 2024 in the Kharkiv and Donetsk regions, where the drones patrolled air defense zones, striking radar stations and command posts. Their tactics evolved from single missions to combined attacks in swarms with other UAVs, such as the Geran-2 and Gerbera. As of October 2025, 50-100 Harpy drones are launched in strategic operations, straining enemy detection systems and depleting their resources. This allows other assets to penetrate their targets.

Primary targets include radar stations, energy facilities, and logistics hubs. Strikes in 2024 disrupted air defense systems, demonstrating the drone's value. The Harpia-A1 modification, with combined guidance, allowed it to destroy mobile anti-aircraft systems. Analysts estimate that approximately 70% of drones reach their targets, causing damage exceeding their cost by tens of times. In September 2024, attacks with the Harpia disabled key radars, allowing precision missiles to penetrate. In 2025, the drone was used in exercises to practice air defense suppression scenarios, including simulating air defense penetration.

Drawbacks include vulnerability to advanced electronic warfare and a reliance on pre-configured loitering zones, which can reduce effectiveness in jamming-intensive environments. High cost limits widespread use compared to the Gerbera. However, accuracy and autonomy compensate for these weaknesses: a single strike on a radar creates a strategic advantage. In 2025, AI-powered versions increased survivability by 25-35%.

Meaning and Legacy

The Harpy has revolutionized approaches to air defense suppression, demonstrating that passively guided loitering munitions can neutralize sophisticated systems like the S-300 or Patriot. Its effectiveness—a combination of range, autonomy, and precision—makes the drone ideal for creating breaches in defenses, allowing other weapons to penetrate.

The Harpy has become the basis for new unmanned systems, including versions with AI for swarm behavior and integration into multi-level control systems. Plans for 2026 include exports and licensed production for partner countries, strengthening Russia's position in the arms market. Adaptation for naval operations, including the suppression of ship air defenses, expands its tactical potential.