A video released by a Russian volunteer group called Archangel Project shows a quadcopter drone trapped with Zip Ties to the wing of a MIG-29 fighter, allegedly as part of an experiment to intercept for non-man enemy aircraft.
Precarious installation, however, raises doubts about its effectiveness, as the drone cannot be released in flight and would probably not resist the high speeds of the fighter. In addition, the presence of the equipment can interfere with the aircraft’s defense systems, making the idea a more advertising blow than a viable military solution.
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The Archangel project, which claims to develop combat drones, suggested that the aircraft could transport the interceptor to cities such as Kiev or LVIV, but experts consider the proposal absurd, as Russian fighters do not even operate near these areas due to strong Ukrainian aerial defenses.
The group also stated that it “solved” the communication problem training drone operators to fly fighters, an allegation considered unlikely, given the complexity and cost of these aircraft.
Despite the fantasy tone of the experiment, the initiative reflects Russia’s growing concern about drones threat in the war against Ukraine. While the use of fighters as launch platforms still seems distant, the country is investing in other solutions, such as loeing ammunition and more advanced air systems.
For now, however, Archangel’s attempt seems more like a marketing exercise than a real military advance.
Source: The War Zone | Photo: x @sambendett | This content was created with the help of AI and revised by the editorial team
Relevant for combat or just PR? Russia’s Project Archangel is showing the “integration” of their CUAS interceptor drone with a fighter jet “…so that the interceptor can be “piloted” by a jet fighter crew.” But the drone is zip tied to the plane, so… pic.twitter.com/Oi3TIivs35
– Samuel BENDETT (@sambendett) August 10, 2025
