PARIS, — June 16, 2026 : Ukrainian state defense company Ukroboronprom unveiled its new UAV-290 strike unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) during the Eurosatory 2026 defense exhibition in Paris, showcasing a new long-range tactical strike capability designed for autonomous operations against ground targets.
The unveiling was reported by a correspondent from Militarnyi attending the exhibition. The UAV-290 has been developed as a strike drone intended for the autonomous engagement of stationary ground targets at tactical ranges, reflecting Ukraine’s continued focus on expanding its portfolio of unmanned combat systems.
According to information presented at the exhibition, the UAV-290 is powered by a turbojet engine that enables a cruising speed of up to 800 kilometers per hour, making it significantly faster than many conventional propeller-driven unmanned aerial vehicles currently used for strike missions.
The system is launched with the assistance of a solid-fuel booster, which accelerates the aircraft during takeoff. After launch, the drone transitions to autonomous flight, navigating toward its target using an integrated Inertial Navigation System (INS) combined with Global Positioning System (GPS) guidance. This navigation architecture is designed to support autonomous mission execution and improve accuracy during long-range operations.
The UAV-290 has a maximum payload capacity of 100 kilograms and a total launch weight of 350 kilograms. The aircraft is capable of operating at ranges of up to 650 kilometers, providing the ability to engage targets located deep within the tactical and operational battlefield environment.
In terms of dimensions, the drone features a wingspan of 1.7 meters and a length of 3.5 meters. Its relatively compact size allows the system to be deployed from mobile launch platforms, improving operational flexibility and enabling rapid relocation of launch units.
The introduction of the UAV-290 comes as Ukrainian defense manufacturers continue to expand the range of unmanned systems displayed at major international defense exhibitions. The growing emphasis on autonomous strike capabilities reflects broader trends in modern warfare, where unmanned platforms are increasingly being used for reconnaissance, precision strike, and long-range attack missions.
Earlier during the Eurosatory 2026 exhibition, Militarnyi reported that Ukrainian developers also presented the DRAGON ground launch system in Paris. The unveiling of both systems highlights ongoing efforts by Ukraine’s defense industry to develop and showcase indigenous unmanned and missile-launch technologies for domestic and potential international users.
The UAV-290 is among several next-generation unmanned systems presented at Eurosatory 2026 this year, where defense companies from around the world are exhibiting new technologies aimed at enhancing battlefield mobility, precision strike capabilities, and autonomous operations.
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