Ukraine deploys advanced switchblade 600 drones in counterattack
Ukrainians are systematically working to eliminate Russian air defence and anti-drone systems. To this end, Western innovations such as the Switchblade 600 drones are being utilised. Here are their capabilities.
The video below shows the first recording of an attack by the rare American Switchblade 600 drone on a Russian air defence system resembling the 9K331 Tor-M1 or 9K332 Tor-M2. This is a highly dangerous Russian system capable of targeting drones. However, based on the video—despite its low quality—it seems the Ukrainians caught the Tor on the move because the detection radar appears to be folded.
Switchblade 600 - effectively a long-range FGM-148 Javelin
Ukraine received these drones in greater numbers in 2024, but unfortunately, photos or videos of their use are rare. The Switchblade 600 is designed for attacking armoured vehicles or infantry groups, as it has significantly more firepower than the smaller Switchblade 300.
The Switchblade 600 drone is equipped with a dual-function warhead similar to that of the famous FGM-148 Javelin. This enables it to take out even the most advanced Russian tanks, such as the T-90M, T-72B3M, or T-80BWM. In its other mode, it disperses a significant area with shrapnel.
The drones weigh approximately 15 kilograms and are launched from a system resembling a 19-centimetre mortar, bringing the total weight to about 29 kilograms. The drones have a range exceeding 90 kilometres, although this requires a signal amplifier, as real attacks are feasible over a distance of more than 40 kilometres.
The drone has a dual-axis stabilised head featuring a daytime and thermal camera and an encrypted connection to the base station. This is an extremely important feature that is not available to commercial drones. The manufacturer, AeroVironment, also claims a flight time of over 40 minutes and a speed of 110 kilometres per hour, increasing to 185 kilometres per hour during an attack.
Switchblade 600 drones represent the second solution, after Polish Warmate drones, that can function effectively in environments where swarms of basic commercial FPV drones are unsuccessful. It's also noteworthy that the algorithms in Switchblade drones automatically track and attack chosen targets, and if they miss, they can turn around and attempt another strike.
