Modernized Soviet/Russian tactical reconnaissance drone by Tupolev, successor to the Tu-143 within the VR-3D 'Reys-D' system. First flown 1987, in service from the 1990s; stretched fuselage for extra fuel (~double range), uprated TR3-117 turbojet and improved low-altitude guidance. Carries film, real-time TV or IR reconnaissance.
| Country | Russia |
|---|---|
| Subtype | Reconnaissance drone |
| Role | Reconnaissance |
| Russian-made | true |
| Class | Tactical |
| Classification | Tactical reconnaissance UAV |
| Mission | Reconnaissance, ISR, Surveillance |
| Datalink | Trassa-M data downlink |
| Variants | VR-3D Reys-D system |
| MTOW (kg) | 1400 |
| Operators | Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Syria, North Korea |
| Frame type | Fixed-wing |
| Length (m) | 8.29 |
| Propulsion | Turbojet |
| Range (km) | 360 |
| Wingspan (m) | 2.25 |
| Export status | Exported |
| Launch method | Rocket-assisted |
| Autonomy level | Autonomous waypoint |
| Endurance (min) | 13 |
| Recovery method | Parachute |
| Year introduced | 1987 |
| Max speed (km/h) | 950 |
| Standard sensors | Panoramic film camera, TV reconnaissance, IR reconnaissance |
| Production status | In service |
| Service ceiling (m) | 5000 |
| Airframe / lift type | Fixed-wing |
| Control / autonomy level | Waypoint / GPS-guided |
| Domain | Aerial (UAV/UAS) |
| Mission / use case – military | ISR |
| Origin / supply chain | Military-grade |
| Propulsion | Turbine / jet |
| Range / endurance | Medium range (150–650 km) |
| Signature / detectability | GNSS-dependent, RCS – large, RF-emitting |
| Speed regime | High-speed / jet (>400 km/h) |
| Threat vector | Surveillance / reconnaissance |
| Weight / class | Class III – MALE (>600 kg), FAA >25 kg (Part 137 / waiver) |