On October 6, social media shared images of a flying-wing-shaped aircraft crash near Konstantynivka [Donetsk], about 15 kilometers from Ukrainian lines. The examination of the wreckage photos has confirmed that it was a Russian S-70 “Okhotnik-B” combat drone (UCAV).
However, this aircraft has not yet officially entered service with the Russian Aerospace Forces [VKS]. Unveiled in 2018 during its initial ground tests, the S-70 “Okhotnik-B” made its maiden flight the following year. Shortly after, the Russian Ministry of Defense released images showing it flying alongside a Su-57 “Felon,” a fifth-generation fighter-bomber developed by Sukhoi.
For the record, based on available data, the S-70 is an imposing UCAV, with a wingspan of 20 meters, a length of 14 meters, and a takeoff weight of about 20 tons. Capable of flying at a speed of 1,000 km/h, it can carry 2.8 tons of munitions, divided between two internal bays. Estimates place its range at 6,000 km.
The S-70 has undergone modifications to enhance its stealth capabilities since its first flight. Notably, the S-70 has redesigned the nozzle of its Saturn AL-31 turbofan engine to reduce its infrared signature and radar cross-section.
Initially, Russian officials suggested it would accompany the Su-57 “Felon.” However, they later clarified that the S-70 could conduct strikes in contested environments and use its “long-range weapons” to intercept enemy aircraft.
Even though its serial production has not yet begun (despite being announced for 2024), the S-70 is said to have already completed at least one mission in Ukraine, as Russian forces have demonstrated a willingness to test future equipment in the operational theaters where they are deployed.
Thus, the presence of an S-70 in the Donetsk area is not surprising. However, the reasons for its crash are more puzzling. Apparently, even though Ukrainian forces claimed responsibility for its downfall, they are unlikely to be involved. According to social media videos and all other evidence, a Russian fighter jet shot it down. Was it a Su-57 “Felon”? The Russian “Fighter Bomber” channel on Telegram, which is close to the VKS, suggests so.
At this stage, two hypotheses can be proposed: either it was a “friendly fire” incident, or the S-70 lost control, prompting the decision to shoot it down. In the latter case, it is uncertain whether it was actually on a combat mission in Ukraine—it may have simply become uncontrollable during a test flight. In any case, the UCAV has fallen into Ukrainian-controlled territory, and its wreckage will undoubtedly provide a valuable source of intelligence.
