MOSCOW — Russia’s state defense corporation Rostec has delivered another batch of its automated Zubr short-range air-defense systems to the Russian Ministry of Defense. The systems are designed to counter small and maneuverable unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and loitering munitions.
Automated Drone Detection and Tracking
The Zubr was developed by Rostec’s High-Precision Systems holding. According to Rostec, the system can independently detect and track drones, with the operator required to authorize the final engagement.
The system consists of a command post, an integrated radar and four combat modules. Each module has an electro-optical targeting system and is armed with four 7.62 mm PKT or PKTM machine guns. Some reports have also identified the GShG-7.62. A complete Zubr system can bring up to 16 machine-gun barrels against an aerial target.
Short-Range Air Defense
The integrated radar can detect both large and small aerial targets at ranges of up to 1.5 kilometers and supports round-the-clock operation.
Rostec says the Zubr is intended to protect critical infrastructure and other important facilities from low-flying, small aerial targets. It can operate independently or as part of a layered air-defense network, including alongside larger systems such as the Pantsir.
Combat Deployment
Rostec delivered the first batch of Zubr systems to the Russian military in January 2026, after which they were placed on combat duty to protect infrastructure.
Reports from mid-2026 said the systems had destroyed dozens of drones while deployed at administrative and fuel-and-energy facilities. Rostec said combat use has confirmed the system’s effectiveness.
Rostec industrial director Bekhan Ozdoev said the Zubr provides continuous detection and automatic tracking of drones of different sizes. The company has also highlighted its rapid deployment and field-maintenance capabilities, including operation from remote or minimally equipped positions.
Development and Export
The Zubr was first publicly associated with testing and display activities in 2024, including equipment observed at the Kapustin Yar test range and appearances linked to Army-2024. Development was reported to be at an advanced stage by late 2024.
An export version designated TKB-1167 “Bizon” was showcased earlier in September 2026 at the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt.
Rostec has not disclosed the number of systems included in the latest delivery or their exact deployment locations.
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