Ukrainian forces have received new UAS SETH loitering munition, a kamikaze drone bearing a strong resemblance to Iran’s Shahed-136 drone. First seen in December 2024 during German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit to Ukraine, the drone has now been officially introduced in combat.
The Azov 12th Special Operations Brigade recently shared footage of its deployment in the Toretsk sector, confirming that the first batch was provided by the Come Back Alive foundation.
The UAS SETH drone stands out due to its advanced automation. Unlike conventional kamikaze drones requiring manual piloting, this system allows operators to simply set a target point, after which the drone autonomously flies to its destination. This feature reduces reliance on operator skill and enhances precision.
Despite its resemblance to the Shahed-136 drone, the UAS SETH unit is significantly smaller, compact enough to be carried by hand. This size difference impacts its range and payload, making it more suitable for tactical strikes rather than long-range missions. Unlike fuel-powered Shahed drone, the UAS SETH unit uses an electric motor, improving its stealth capabilities by minimizing thermal and acoustic signatures. Additionally, it appears to feature jamming-resistant navigation.
While official specifications remain undisclosed, the UAS SETH unit is expected to be an effective weapon against lightly armored vehicles, artillery, MLRS, and air defense systems. Its introduction marks another step in Ukraine’s efforts to enhance its drone warfare capabilities.
