KUB-2E loitering munition can target unarmoured and light armoured combat equipment. (Janes/Amit Kalra)
Russian firm Kalashnikov Group revealed its KUB-2E loitering munition (LM) at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX) 2025 held in Abu Dhabi from 17 to 21 February.
The KUB-2E is a new addition to the existing range of LMs being produced by Kalashnikov. It is a production-ready variant already inducted into service with the Russian Armed Forces, the company said. It is used as an attack option for targeting enemy manpower, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) launch sites, and critical infrastructure like logistics depots, airfield shelters, and unarmoured and lightly armoured combat equipment.
Speaking to Janes, an official of Kalashnikov said the KUB-2E can be equipped with a wide range of configurable warheads. The LM can be equipped with an electro-optical payload to aid surveillance and strike operations. The KUB-2E can be paired with Kalashnikov's SKAT-350M reconnaissance UAV in a swarm attack, with the SKAT-350M relaying target co-ordinates and data to the KUB-2E for a strike, said Kalashnikov.
According to the company, the KUB-2E requires a three-person combat crew for operation. The maximum weight of a loaded guided LM carrier is 14.5 kg, and it can carry a thermobaric warhead weighing a maximum of 4.6 kg. The LM has an operational range in excess of 40 km, a maximum operating altitude of 2,000 m, a maximum flight speed of 150 km/h, a minimum flight speed of 120 km/h, and a maximum flight endurance of 25 minutes. The KUB-2E utilises predetermined global navigation satellite services (GNSS) co-ordinates for executing strikes.
Looking to read the full article?
Gain unlimited access to Janes news and more...
