The Russian advanced drone S-70 "Hunter" has reportedly gone out of control over Ukraine. This is why it was shot down by a Russian Su-57 fighter jet that was accompanying it.
This was reported by RBK-Ukraine citing Forbes.
According to the publication, the Russians immediately launched an "Iskander" missile at the crash site after the drone fell. This was done to destroy the wreckage. As Forbes notes, there are several reasons why Russia would want to prevent the West from examining parts of the drone.
In particular, the damage to the S-70 "Hunter" could be one of the biggest failures ever experienced by the Russian Aerospace Forces, if not worse.
"These missiles are scarce and expensive, and diverting one from the campaign against Ukrainian cities indicates that it was a high-priority target," the publication states.
Despite Russian attempts to erase evidence, Ukraine was able to recover key components of the S-70 drone for analysis. In particular, valuable information can be gleaned from the wreckage. This information will likely undermine the S-70's stealth capabilities, making these drones less effective.
Furthermore, it is likely that the West will be able to discern the reasons behind the functionality of the S-70 "Hunter" and gain insights on how to counter the Su-57.
Another reason why Russia wanted to destroy the wreckage of its drone with the "Iskander" is its desire to conceal its own lies regarding achievements in stealth technology.
"Considering Russian culture, it is quite possible that even senior commanders are unaware of these shortcomings... The Russian leadership may soon discover that their costly and heavily promoted stealth drone is, in fact, not 'stealth' at all. They will learn this by reading the news," the magazine added.
Recently, media reports indicated that an aerial target was shot down in the sky near Konstantinovka, Donetsk region. Initially, it was thought to be a Su-25 or Su-34 (carriers of guided bombs), but later videos supported the version of a drone being the "Hunter."
For more details on what makes this drone unique and what its damage means for Ukraine, read the article by RBK-Ukraine.