Fragments of a new Shahed with AI-assisted thermal targeting found in Ukraine

Following a recent Russian night attack, the wreckage of a downed upgraded Iranian Shahed drone has been discovered and examined in Ukraine. The new variant features an improved navigation system and an AI-powered thermal guidance module that helps target acquisition at night and in low visibility.

As reported by the channels eRadar and Colonel GSh, this model has several features. First of all, it is the Tallysman satellite navigation system, which has a 4-component CRPA antenna, which increases resistance to radio interference, and it is also a thermal camera with an integrated NVIDIA Jetson mini-computer, which helps the drone to independently identify targets using AI. This approach reduces the device's dependence on the GPS signal and ensures more accurate destruction of thermal objects (engines of equipment, generators, people, energy infrastructure) in difficult conditions.

It is reported that the main components of the drone, such as the engine and warhead, remained similar to previous versions.

According to Militarnyi, the description of the drone and its serial number MS001 correspond to the characteristics of the Shahed-236 model, which was previously demonstrated to the Russian delegation in Iran. During testing, this type of drone hit the target with an accuracy of 3–5 meters, having the ability to choose it in real time from several options. The strike complex, in addition to the drone itself, includes a control station and a repeater, which provide operation at a distance of up to 220 km. According to the publication, each such Shahed-236 costs Russia $900 thousand.

Analysts believe that Iran is transferring these modernized drones to Russia in exchange for access to modern weapons that Iran needs in its conflict with Israel. According to Ukrainian intelligence, the drones could have been delivered to Russia recently and immediately used in combat conditions without prior testing.