Exclusive: Ukraine’s 12th Azov Brigade Deploys New SETH Kamikaze Drone Copying Russian Geran-2.

On March 10, 2025, the Come Back Alive foundation, a prominent Ukrainian charity supporting the military, shared through its Facebook page that the Ukrainian 12th Army Brigade Azov had begun deploying a new loitering munition, known as the Seth UAS. This development marks a significant shift in the use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in the ongoing conflict with Russian forces. The Seth drone, as described, appears to be modeled after Russian and Iranian designs, particularly the Russian Geran-2 and the Iranian Shahed-136.
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Ukrainian-made SETH loitering munition in action as it is deployed by Ukraine's 12th Azov Brigade to target enemy positions on the front lines. (Picture source: Facebook account Come Back Alive foundation)

The Seth UAS (Unmanned Aerial System) alos called loitering munition or kamikaze drone stands out due to its fully automated operational capabilities, making it an ideal tool for frontline combat. A video released by the Azov Brigade demonstrated the system’s efficiency: operators first deploy a reconnaissance drone to identify and designate a target, in this instance, a Russian military truck. Once the target is locked, the strike drone autonomously engages the target, showcasing the ease of use and high operational autonomy of the system.

In terms of design, the Seth UAS shows notable similarities to the Shahed-136, especially in its tailless delta-wing shape. However, there are key differences that set it apart. Unlike the Iranian Shahed-136, which relies on a traditional internal combustion engine, the Seth is powered by an electric motor with a pusher propeller configuration. This electric propulsion could offer quieter operation and potentially longer flight durations, marking a shift toward the use of electric motors in modern UAV systems. While the launch method has not been officially confirmed, it is likely that the Seth is launched using a standard catapult system, a common feature in many loitering munition designs.

While the exact specifications for the Seth UAS have not been released, estimates can be made based on its design and functionality. It is believed that the drone can carry a payload of 3 to 5 kilograms, suitable for small but impactful warheads or surveillance equipment. The drone’s range is expected to exceed 50 kilometers, providing a solid operational radius for tactical strikes and surveillance missions.

One notable feature of the Seth UAS is the presence of a protected GPS receiver equipped with an eight-channel Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA). This technology suggests that the Seth is designed to operate effectively in environments affected by electronic warfare (EW) systems, such as GPS jamming or spoofing. This feature could prove essential in contested environments where the enemy has the capability to disrupt satellite navigation systems.

The deployment of the Seth UAS marks a significant milestone for the Ukrainian military, both in terms of technological advancement and operational strategy. The introduction of indigenous loitering munitions not only provides Ukrainian forces with a new tactical tool but also enhances the country’s self-sufficiency in unmanned systems, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Loitering munitions have proven to be highly effective in modern warfare, offering a cost-efficient method for precision strikes with minimal risk to personnel, and the Seth could become a key asset for Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.

The autonomous capabilities of the Seth are also noteworthy. The drone’s ability to designate and strike targets independently could reduce the number of personnel required for missions, allowing soldiers to focus on other critical tasks. Furthermore, the combination of reconnaissance and strike capabilities in one system makes the Seth an excellent tool for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, expanding its role in the battlefield beyond just targeting enemy assets.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues to evolve, the emergence of the Seth UAS highlights the growing sophistication of the weapons and systems employed by Ukrainian forces. By developing domestically produced loitering munitions, Ukraine is not only enhancing its battlefield capabilities but also showcasing its resilience and innovation in the face of adversity. The Seth is just one example of how the Ukrainian military is adapting to the challenges posed by the ongoing war, and it is likely to influence the future development of loitering munitions and unmanned systems in military operations worldwide.

The arrival of the Seth UAS is expected to change the tactical landscape, prompting further advancements in autonomous systems designed for precision strikes, reconnaissance, and counter-electronic warfare. As the war progresses, loitering munitions such as the Seth will likely play an increasingly pivotal role, further shaping the direction of modern warfare.