Russian Military Tests Cruise Missile Launches from Aerial Platforms

Russia’s Ministry of Defense has published videos and images showing modified Orion UAVs and helicopters Mi-8AMTSh-VN and Mi-28NM carrying long-range cruise missiles and jet-powered drones, according to multiple military-focused outlets. The reporting suggests Russia is working on a more cost-effective air-launch alternative designed to extend battlefield range and reduce risks to crewed aircraft. In July, footage on Vladimir Solovyov’s Telegram/MAX channels reportedly showed an Orion (Inokhodets) carrying the S8000 Banderol cruise missile, with the weapon deliberately blurred and not shown launching. Ukrainian outlets cited potential modifications such as removal of the nose-mounted optoelectronic system, possibly replaced by guidance, communications and a remote launch structure.