UMEX 2024: Yugoimport details development of new unmanned aerial systems

The Yugoimport Senka UAV can carry two 60 mm warheads on the hardpoints provided under its wings. (Janes/Amit Kalra)

Serbian defence manufacturer Yugoimport (J P Jugoimport-SDPR) displayed the Senka and Mosquito unmanned aerial systems (UASs) at the Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference (UMEX 2024) held from 23 to 25 January in Abu Dhabi.

The Senka is a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) being developed for conventional attack and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) roles.

According to Yugoimport, the Senka has autonomous navigation and guidance capability. It is launched from a catapult and features a parachute recovery system mounted on the mid-fuselage to ensure airfield-free operations. The UAV is constructed from composite materials and features a top-mounted wing with winglets. The fuselage features a ventral electro-optic/infrared sensor payload. It also has an electric powertrain and drives a two-blade propeller in tractor configuration. Janes analyses that the spinner fairing in the nose section likely houses constant speed unit (CSU).

A Yugoimport official told Janes that development work on the platform began in mid-2023, and a mock-up was first unveiled at the ‘Partner 2023' show held in September in Serbia. A complete Senka UAV will comprise three UAVs, one ground control station, a remote video terminal, catapult mechanism, and associated ground support equipment. The UAV will be capable of carrying 12 light 40 mm grenades for free-fall attack on ground targets, or two 60 mm glide kit-equipped munitions for attack from a distance, the official said.