Kalashnikov Concern, the renowned Russian small arms manufacturer best known for the AK-47 assault rifle, is set to unveil ‘battle-tested’ drones for the first time at an international exhibition. 

The company will display unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) 2025 in Abu Dhabi, scheduled from February 17 to 21. 

IDEX, regarded as one of the world’s most influential tri-service defense events, is organized by Capital Events with full backing from the UAE Armed Forces. It is held under the patronage of Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and Supreme Commander of the country’s military. 

With drones emerging as a major focus, Kalashnikov will be one of approximately 20 Russian defense firms present at the event.

According to the Russian arms manufacturer, the drones, which have been tested in the “NVO zone,” a term used by Russia to refer to areas of military operations in Ukraine, will be presented alongside other advanced military and surveillance equipment.

The Goliath-R and Karakurt-R UAVs—both vertical take-off and landing drones—will be displayed in their civilian configurations. Additionally, the company will exhibit the Quazimachta, an advanced aerial platform designed for long-duration electronic payload operations. 

Kalashnikov’s latest move comes as part of a broader effort to position itself as a major player in unmanned combat and reconnaissance systems. 

As reported, the company has already announced the debut of its KUB-SM reconnaissance and strike drone in Abu Dhabi, alongside the introduction of the KUB-2-E, an advanced loitering munition specifically developed for export markets, in the upcoming Abu Dhabi exhibition. 

With Russia increasingly relying on UAV technology in the Ukraine war, Kalashnikov’s presence at IDEX 2025 signals a strategic push for its defense exports. 

The event will provide the company with an opportunity to attract potential buyers, strengthen partnerships, and showcase the effectiveness of its drone systems. 

Goliath-R, Karakurt-R And Quazimachta UAVs

The three unmanned aerial vehicles scheduled for display in Abu Dhabi have been battle-tested during the past two years. Their deployment in the Ukraine war provided critical feedback from troops on the ground. 

In response, the company announced that the feedback has already led it to introduce system upgrades focused on improving the UAVs’ capabilities.

The Goliath-R and Karakurt-R UAVs come in vertical take-off and landing configurations. They are developed for a wide range of applications. 

The Goliath-R is a compact and versatile UAV that can navigate dense urban environments, which makes it suitable for search-and-rescue operations, intelligence gathering, and security monitoring. 

It is available in two configurations: a case that holds six drones and a separate single-drone case. Both options include an integrated recharging system that allows for quick deployment and on-the-field recharging.

The Karakurt-R, a mini-UAV small enough to fit in a pocket, is designed for rapid deployment in the field. It can be launched from a tube-like container in seconds. 

This “micro-reconnaissance drone” is designed for ease of use in confined spaces. The Karakurt features a compact launch container that makes it highly effective for field operations where speed and maneuverability are essential.

Beyond its real-time reconnaissance capabilities, the Karakurt offers flexible launch options and seamless integration with existing communication systems. 

Operators who have tested the drone report that its performance and agility align with the current demands of the Russian armed forces in high-intensity combat scenarios.

The Goliath and Karakurt copter-type systems are capable of conducting aerial reconnaissance around the clock, providing real-time 3D data while capturing and tracking targets at the operator’s command. In the event of signal loss, the drones automatically return to base until a stable connection is reestablished.  

On the other hand, the Quazimachta is a high-altitude aerial platform designed for long-duration electronic payload operations. 

Unlike conventional drones, the Quazimachta provides round-the-clock surveillance capabilities in both optical and infrared spectrums. This ensures continuous monitoring of designated areas. The UAV can transmit real-time data to ground terminals. 

The product was first unveiled at the Army 2023 Military and Technical Forum. Since its debut, the drone has undergone several upgrades, including an extension of its power cable length at the request of operators to increase its functionality. 

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