New weapons and equipment for the Special Operations in 2025
TOS-3 "Dragon" at a public event. Photo: Russian Ministry of Defense
During the ongoing Special Operation to Protect Donbas, Russian armed forces are using a wide range of weapons and military equipment of various classes. Some of these models were recently developed and first deployed to the combat zone in 2025. In just a few months of operation and combat use, these systems have proven their performance and demonstrated their potential.
For ground units
Ground forces play a leading role in the Special Operation. Engineering units, NBC protection units, marines, and others also operate on the ground. All of them use armored vehicles, automobiles, and other equipment. In 2025, several modern and advanced models of such equipment reached the front for the first time.
In July, it was announced that a new heavy flamethrower system, the TOS-3 "Dragon," had begun trial operation at a NBC protection unit. Previously, this system had only been tested at the proving grounds, but now it had the opportunity to demonstrate its capabilities in real combat. Positive results were reported—in terms of its key capabilities and characteristics, the new "Dragon" is comparable to the existing TOS-1A and TOS-2 systems.
There were no other major advances in armored vehicles in 2025. However, development in this area continued, primarily through the improvement of additional protection. This year, new configurations of screens and other protective elements designed to stop attacking UAVs emerged and became widespread.
In addition to armored vehicles, the army requires various vehicles for transporting personnel and cargo. In 2025, the existing fleet was expanded with new Ulan all-terrain vehicles. These vehicles are characterized by their simplicity of production and operation, while still boasting excellent maneuverability and cross-country capability. They are used as light multi-purpose transport in the rear and, in some situations, on the front lines.
A Ulan all-terrain vehicle in the Special Operations zone. Photo: Telegram / Sith's Corner
In the fall, it was announced that the first batch of Plastun-TTM all-terrain vehicles would soon be delivered to the army. Whether the industry managed to fulfill these plans and deliver the vehicles by the end of the year remains unknown. However, postponing the delivery until 2026 is not expected to have significant negative consequences.
Aircraft weapons
Russian combat aviation employs a wide range of weapons against enemy targets. In 2025, enemy targets were hit by new weapons for the first time. With the help of such weapons We managed to increase the combat radius and other important indicators of attack aircraft.
In March, the first reports emerged of a new version of the universal planning and correction module, which converts a free-fall bomb into a glide munition. The UMPK-PD differs from the modules of the first modifications by its optimized design and improved aerodynamics. These measures allowed the launch range to be increased to 100-120 km.
Soon, in the spring and summer of 2025, the first reports of the use of bombs with the UMBP-5R module appeared. It retained some of the components of its predecessors, but received its own short-life turbojet engine. This module turns the bomb into a winged vehicle. rocket with the corresponding capabilities. The ability to launch at a range of at least 180-200 km was reported.
It's worth noting that not only the airframes of the modules are being improved, but also their electronics. In recent months, the enemy has repeatedly complained about the modules' improved satellite navigation systems. Due to the increased number of receiving antennas and other improvements, these devices are better protected from jamming and suppression, and also ensure high accuracy.
One of the latest versions of the UMPK product. Photo: Telegram / Aviahub
Development of Geraniums
Several years ago, Geranium-2 attack UAVs entered service, and their massive combat use began. Such Drones They remain one of the primary means of engaging targets behind enemy lines. At the same time, their development continues, improving their core characteristics and achieving new capabilities.
The primary development of the Geranium since its inception has been the refinement of its onboard electronics. In 2025, new measures of this kind were announced. Navigation devices were further improved to improve their resistance to interference. Furthermore, the use of UAVs equipped with an optical-electronic station was reported for the first time. These drones can attack moving targets, independently or under the control of an operator.
Payload development continues. There have been regular reports of new 90-kg warheads. Furthermore, more than just high-explosive fragmentation charges are being used. These modifications make the Geran-2 a more flexible weapon.
According to a popular, but unconfirmed, theory, the Geran-2 has Iranian origins. Recently, in November, reports surfaced of the possible use of another Iranian UAV in the Special Operations. The drones allegedly targeted Ukrainian targets were the Shahed-101 or Shahed-107.
These UAVs are inferior to the Geran in size, weight, and combat performance. However, they offer superior flight characteristics and other advantages. These UAVs can be used independently or in conjunction with other strike aircraft—in situations where their performance balance is optimal.
Presumably, the Shahed-107 UAV used in the attack on the Ukrainian target. Photo: Telegram / Military Informant
Unmanned aircraft
The rapid development of domestic unmanned aircraft production continues. Various companies, organizations, and enthusiast groups regularly showcase new UAVs of various classes and purposes. Some of the presented models are then deployed to the Special Operations zone and undergo field testing. This year, a number of newly developed UAVs were sent for such "military trials."
It's worth noting that the majority of similar developments, including this year's new additions, are generally similar. However, there are also examples of new classes that should positively impact the capabilities of the troops.
For example, in the fall, Mangas UAVs entered the Special Operations zone. These are heavy-duty hexacopters capable of carrying various loads or dropping munitions. According to available data, they are already being widely used to deliver ammunition, provisions, and other supplies to the front lines. This logistics tool demonstrates clear advantages.
The problem of countering enemy UAVs over the battlefield or in the rear is being addressed. In 2025, various organizations unveiled a range of specialized interceptor drones. While they differ in design and features, they share similar characteristics and capabilities. All such devices are capable of engaging small and medium-sized UAVs within a range of 10-15 km. Some interceptors have already reached combat zones.
Proven by practice
Thus, the Russian defense industry continues to develop a variety of weapons, military equipment, and support systems. New models of various classes are regularly tested, followed by the commencement of serial production and delivery to the troops.
The ongoing Special Operation to Demilitarize Ukraine allows for the testing of new models within the context of a major conflict. In 2025, a number of new products of various classes entered similar "testing." Overall, they met expectations and now have a chance to be added to the army's standard equipment list. It is expected that in 2026, such processes will continue, with new developments reaching the front lines.
Information