Russian Lancet Loitering Munition Strikes Ukrainian MLRS Pickup in Kursk
A still-image has been circulating online showcasing a Russian ZALA Lancet-3 loitering munition just moments before impacting a Sivalka VM-5, a Ukrainian improvised Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS), in the Kursk region. SOFX has not been able to confirm the source of the image, but discourse on social media have attributed the image to a crew member of the Ukrainian unit.
Sivalka VM-5 is a light MLRS developed by Ukrainian forces for mobility and fast deployment. Mounted usually on pickup trucks, it can fire unguided S-8 rockets up to five kilometers. Its launcher is detachable and reusable, but the system lacks accuracy and armor protection.
Following the release of the still-image, conflict archivers have found previously released footage showing the strike from the perspective of the Russian ZALA “Lancet-3” Loitering Munition and its accompanied reconnaissance drone. The footage was released previously by the Russian Telegram channel Warrior of North.
In the attack, a ZALA reconnaissance drone guided the Lancet to its target. The Lancet-3, a loitering munition with a flight time of up to 40 minutes, is equipped to destroy small, lightly armored vehicles and equipment with high accuracy.
The Ukrainian crew reportedly survived the direct hit without fatalities according to commentators.
