In a series of Russian attacks on Ukraine, several Gerbera drones breached Polish airspace multiple times, with at least three shot down due to security concerns they posed.
Gerbera Drone Overview:
The Gerbera is a small, inexpensive drone mainly used as a decoy or “wabik.” Designed for simplicity and mass production, it is built using styrofoam, cardboard, and wooden components.
Assembly takes place in Yelabuga, a Russian city in the Republic of Tatarstan, approximately 200km from Kazan. With a wingspan of 2.5 meters, under 18kg in weight, and ranging up to 160km/h, these drones can travel 600km on a single flight.
Construction and Purpose:
Propelled by a small internal combustion engine driving a wooden propeller, the Gerbera’s primary function is to overwhelm enemy defenses without carrying any weaponry. Though initially deployed as unarmed drones, Ukrainian forces have reportedly identified modified versions with reconnaissance systems or small warheads.
Origin and Controversy:
According to Ukraine, components for these drones originate from China, though the country maintains a neutral position in the conflict. Despite sanctions and limited contact with Russia, there have been reports of electronic parts from both the US and Europe being found in the drones used on Ukraine.
Reports from The Telegraph suggest that assembly of these drones is delegated to teenage laborers specifically for this purpose.
