The Shahed-136/Geran-2 is frequently mischaracterised as a loitering munition. It is more accurately classified as a one-way-attack UAV (OWA-UAV). While both system types deliver kinetic effects by impact, they differ fundamentally in their control and guidance architectures. Loitering munitions are equipped with electro-optical sensors, a video downlink and a control uplink that allow real-time operator control as well as attacks on relocatable and moving targets. By contrast, traditional OWA-UAVs operate in an automated mode to reach pre-programmed targets using inertial, satellite and, increasingly, visual navigation systems.

Both Iran and Russia, however, have sought to move beyond the traditional OWA-UAV concept by integrating beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) datalink options into their platforms.

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