The Molniya-1 and Molniya-2 (Russian: Lightning-1/Lightning-2) is a Russian made FPV 'fixed-wing' strike and reconnaissance drone (UAV), operated by the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. It utilizes a low-cost "flat-pack" design, allowing it to be disassembled and transported inside backpacks and other lightweight transports. It is manufactured out of plywood, foam, plastic and aluminum. The Molniya serves as a low-cost platform capable of field assembly and mass production. The drone is in use in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Specification

Wingspan: ~1.5 meters

Weight(Max): 10 kg

Range: 30–50 km

Speed: 90–150 km/h

Endurance: ~40 minutes

Payload: 3–5 kg

Tactical role

It is noted for its multi-role capability, for both surveillance and one-way attack.

Payloads and usage TM-62 (Anti-Tank Mine) and other standard Anti-Tank/Anti-Personnel Munitions: taped or bracketed directly to the fuselage or wing mounts.

RPG-7 warheads, modified 82mm Mortar Rounds and various hand grenades rigged with custom impact-detonation or electrical trip-wire fuses.

On-site 'improvised' munition(s) e.g. bundles of explosives packed with loose steel ball bearings, nails, or cut rebar to maximize anti-personnel fragmentation effects over open terrain and trenches.

Specialized variants A 'Mothership carrier' role transporting a smaller first-person view (FPV) strike drone to target areas before release.

Fiber-Optic or AI Guidance capability.

Reconnaissance variants, configured for surveillance rather than a one-way attack.

Differences Molniya-1: Fixed-wing layout with a single electric motor (distinguishing it from the twin-motor Molniya-2)

Molniya-2/Molniya-2R: advanced variants utilize AI-powered machine vision for attacks in radio silence, also compatible with integrated satellite communication terminals (like GLONASS and Starlink) to resist electronic interference.

Operational history Both variants have been used since 2024 against Ukraine.

The Atlan Aero production facilities which manufacturer Molniya drones were targeted by Ukraine in 2026.

References