Aerial Dominance Redefined by ST-35 Silent Thunder and SR-1200 at MSPO 2024 in Poland

During the MSPO 2024 exhibition, the National Association of Ukrainian Defense Industries (NAUDI) unveiled two major innovations in unmanned aerial systems: the SR-1200 multicopter and the ST-35 “Silent Thunder” loitering munition system. Both devices, developed by the Ukrainian company Athlon Avia, have been designed to meet various military needs, particularly for precision strikes and surveillance operations.

The ST-35 “Silent Thunder” is a loitering munition for high-precision strikes against camouflaged or hard-to-reach targets. It is specifically developed for use in urban environments or areas where minimizing collateral damage is crucial. This capability is essential in modern conflicts, where operations in densely populated areas are common.

One of the key strengths of the ST-35 is its ability to carry different types of explosive warheads, including fragmentation-explosive, thermobaric, incendiary, and cumulative warheads. These options allow the drone to adapt to a variety of targets, such as radars, ammunition depots, or communication points. The drone also boasts impressive precision, with a circular error probable (CEP) of just three meters, ensuring a 95% success rate on selected targets.

The ST-35 has an electric motor that powers six propellers arranged for vertical takeoff (VTOL). After takeoff, the munition is released and transitions to horizontal flight to reach its target. Thanks to its X-shaped aerodynamic design, it achieves a cruising speed of 120 and 140 km/h, with an operational range of 30 km. This long-range capability is supported by an operational altitude of 800 to 1,200 meters, allowing the drone to evade most radar defense systems.

One of the ST-35’s major advantages is its low radar, visual, and acoustic visibility. These characteristics are crucial for penetrating deep into enemy defenses while remaining undetected until the moment of impact. Additionally, it can be launched via a multicopter, which plays a key role in extending its flight endurance and ensuring precise guidance.

The SR-1200 multicopter, on the other hand, is a versatile drone that can be used independently or in conjunction with the ST-35 for reconnaissance, signal relaying, or munitions delivery missions. Compact and mobile, it stands out for its ability to operate in conditions where other transport drones might be impractical. It can be quickly assembled in the field, and its manual and automatic flight modes make it adaptable for various operations.

The SR-1200 has a flight endurance of 60 minutes and a range of 10 to 15 km, enabling it to remain in position to relay signals or monitor an area for an extended period. It is also equipped with day and night cameras as well as thermal sensors, making it useful for reconnaissance and nighttime surveillance missions. It can carry loads ranging from 2 to 4 kg, such as munitions, medical supplies, or provisions to inaccessible areas.

In combination with the ST-35, the multicopter plays a crucial role in launching loitering munitions. It can lift the drone to an altitude of over 500 meters before releasing it on its flight path. After the munition is deployed, the SR-1200 continues to relay signals, ensuring communication between the operator and the drone.

The ST-35 “Silent Thunder” and the SR-1200 multicopter represent a technological advancement in the field of unmanned aerial systems, an area where Ukraine excels. As complementary elements, they allow for highly effective strike and surveillance operations while minimizing risks to civilian infrastructure. Their presentation at the MSPO 2024 exhibition highlights Ukraine’s commitment to developing innovative defense technologies that meet the needs of modern conflicts.