What is a Kamikaze UAV?

A Kamikaze UAV, also known as a loitering munition, is a type of drone that is designed to fly over a target area for some time and then intentionally crash into a target, detonating on impact. The name comes from World War II Japanese "kamikaze" pilots, as the drone is destroyed in the process of the attack.

Key Features

• Single-use: These drones are not meant to return; they are expendable.

• Precision strike capability: Designed for accurate hits on high-value targets.

• Cost-effective: Much cheaper than traditional missiles or manned aircraft operations.

• Loitering ability: Can hover or circle an area while waiting for a target to appear.

• Small and stealthy: Often fly at low altitudes and are difficult to detect with radar.

Notable Examples

1. Switchblade (USA)

   • Switchblade 300: Small, portable, designed for use against personnel and light vehicles.

   • Switchblade 600: Larger, capable of striking armored targets.

2. Shahed-136 (Iran)

   • Used extensively by Russia in Ukraine under the name Geran-2.

   • Long-range with a powerful explosive warhead.

3. Harop (Israel – IAI)

   • A loitering munition designed to target enemy radar systems (anti-radiation drone).

4. ZALA Lancet (Russia)

   • Medium-sized loitering munition frequently used in the Ukraine conflict.

How They Work

1. Launch: Deployed from land-based launchers, ships, or aircraft.

2. Loiter: The drone patrols or circles the area while scanning for targets.

3. Target identification: Either manually guided by an operator or autonomous.

4. Strike: It dives into the target and detonates on impact.

Countermeasures

• Electronic warfare: Jamming GPS signals or disrupting communication.

• Anti-drone systems: Including small air defense systems or laser weapons.

• Radar and interception: Difficult but possible with advanced defense systems.

Why They're Popular

• Well-suited for asymmetric warfare and modern battlefields.

• Effective against high-value targets like tanks, radar installations, or command posts.

• Provide low-risk precision attacks without endangering pilots or expensive equipment.