Irkut-3
Irkut · Russia · also known as Irkut 3 · Updated
Irkut-3 is a small Russian reconnaissance unmanned aircraft built under the Irkut name, the Soviet-founded aircraft maker now trading as Yakovlev. It is one of several lightweight tactical UAVs Irkut has produced alongside its larger combat-aircraft and airliner programmes.
Overview
The Center for a New American Security's Proliferated Drones database lists the Irkut-3 as a small unmanned aircraft system intended for monitoring and reconnaissance, carrying an electro-optical and thermal-imaging payload to identify and locate ground objects and relay imagery to an operator. Little independently verified information is available on the type's operational history or current status; this page records the specifications CNAS's database gives for the aircraft.
Design and capabilities
Irkut-3 is about 0.9 m long with a 2 m wingspan and a maximum take-off weight of around 3 kg, carrying a payload of up to 0.5 kg. CNAS's database gives an endurance of about 75 minutes (1.25 hours), a range of 15 km, a maximum speed of 90 km/h and a service ceiling of 3,000 m — figures consistent with a small, man-portable tactical reconnaissance system rather than a longer-range tactical UAV.
Frequently asked questions
How far can the Irkut-3 fly?
CNAS's Proliferated Drones database gives a range of 15 km and an endurance of about 75 minutes.
How much does the Irkut-3 weigh?
About 3 kg at maximum take-off weight, with a payload of up to 0.5 kg.
Who makes the Irkut-3?
Irkut, the Russian aircraft maker that rebranded as Yakovlev in 2023.
What is the Irkut-3 used for?
Reconnaissance and area monitoring, using an electro-optical and thermal-imaging payload to identify and locate ground objects.
