Moscow – Russian defence conglomerate Rostec has unveiled a mobile version of its ZAK-30 Tsitadel anti-aircraft system, mounting its gun turret, radar and optical sensors on a military truck. Announced on November 6, 2026, the new configuration is designed to provide flexible air defence against drones and other aerial threats.
Previously developed as a stationary system for protecting fixed facilities, Tsitadel can now be relocated between important sites. The system is mounted on a Ural-63706 (Tornado-U) 6x6 armoured truck, equipped with a 440-horsepower diesel engine and a maximum highway speed of 100 km/h. Hydraulic outriggers stabilise the vehicle during firing.
30mm Cannon and Airburst Ammunition
The ZAK-30 Tsitadel features a remotely operated turret with 30mm automatic cannons and a 300-round ammunition capacity. It uses programmable airburst shells that detonate at a calculated point in front of a target, releasing fragments without requiring a direct hit.
According to Rostec, the system can engage fixed-wing drones at distances of up to 1 kilometre and small quadcopters at approximately 800 metres. Some reports mention engagement ranges of up to 1,200 metres against small manoeuvring aerial targets.
Its detection equipment combines radar and electro-optical sensors, including thermal imaging cameras for day-and-night operations. The automated fire-control system handles target tracking, aiming and shell detonation timing. Multiple firing units can also operate through a single command post located up to 1 kilometre away. The stationary version previously required a five-person crew.
Designed to Counter Long-Range Drone Attacks
The mobile system is intended to protect refineries, airfields and other important facilities against long-range drone attacks without using expensive surface-to-air missiles for every engagement.
Rostec claims the programmable ammunition allows Tsitadel to use several times fewer rounds per target than conventional anti-aircraft guns. A company representative also claimed that the stationary system has intercepted drones and cruise missiles. In October, Russian media reported that it destroyed a Ukrainian Flamingo missile using two 30mm shells. These combat claims have not been independently verified.
Tsitadel was first publicly displayed at a security forum near Moscow in May 2026. In September, Rostec presented it internationally for the first time at the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt, targeting potential foreign buyers.
The company is also reportedly evaluating further versions, including possible integration onto naval warships. The truck-mounted configuration provides another deployment option, allowing Russian forces to move air defence protection between locations.
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