In light of rising nuclear tensions, Russia has introduced a new “doomsday drone” designed to prepare for potential nuclear scenarios, as reported by Dmitry Kuzyakin, CEO of the Center of Integrated Unmanned Solutions (CUS). Speaking to the state-run news outlet Tass, Kuzyakin highlighted that this first-person view (FPV) drone can monitor radiation levels and help protect personnel if a nuclear incident occurs.
This compact, agile drone offers about 20 minutes of flight time and can operate effectively within a range of up to a mile, depending on contamination levels. It’s designed for convenient storage alongside ground equipment.
“I truly believe that reason will prevail and we won’t see nuclear weapons used, which would make this drone unnecessary. However, it’s essential to prepare for even the worst-case situations,” Kuzyakin expressed to Tass.
This development comes amid increasing global tensions, particularly following Russia’s threats directed at the U.S. and NATO during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine that escalated after the invasion in February 2022. In June, President Vladimir Putin indicated that Russia was approaching a “point of no return” regarding its nuclear stance.
Recently, Russia’s military progressed to a third phase of nuclear weapons drills, aimed at enhancing readiness for tactical nuclear weaponry, as stated by the Russian Defense Ministry.
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As 2024 approaches, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists reaffirmed their critical stance by setting the Doomsday Clock to 90 seconds to midnight, signifying unprecedented global risks. Currently, Russia is estimated to hold around 5,580 nuclear warheads, while the U.S. has approximately 5,044. Several other nations, including North Korea, possess nuclear weapons, but their stockpiles are significantly smaller.
Experts caution that nuclear warfare would devastate life on Earth, causing catastrophic damage both domestically and internationally. As one analyst noted, the use of nuclear weapons would be suicidal for any country involved, leading to severe consequences for both the instigator and the global community.