Orlan-10 vs Orlan-30
Orlan-10 and Orlan-30 are related tactical reconnaissance references, with Orlan-30 particularly associated with artillery target designation. The practical distinction concerns sensors and supported fire-control tasks, not merely a larger model number.
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Specifications side by side
| Specification | Orlan-10 | Orlan-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Special Technology Center (STC) | Special Technology Center (STC) |
| Country of origin | Russia | Russia |
| Mission role | Artillery Correction / ISR / Electronic Warfare / SIGINT | Artillery Reconnaissance / Target Designation |
| Year introduced | 2013 | 2020 |
| Length | 2.0 m | Not publicly disclosed |
| Wingspan | 3.1 m | Not publicly disclosed |
| Height | 0.6 m | Not publicly disclosed |
| Maximum speed | 150 km/h | Not publicly disclosed |
| Published range | 120 km | Not publicly disclosed |
| Endurance | 16 hr | Not publicly disclosed |
| Service ceiling | 5,000 m | Not publicly disclosed |
| Payload | 5 kg | Not publicly disclosed |
| Weight | 16 kg | Not publicly disclosed |
| Armament | None (reconnaissance); EW variant carries SIGINT/IMSI-catcher payload and GPS spoofing system | No confirmed onboard weapon; reconnaissance, laser designation, and artillery-support payloads reported |
Figures below come from the linked DroneStrike profiles and retain their configuration qualifiers. Maximum speed, range, endurance and payload are separate published figures, not a single achievable mission configuration. Range is not necessarily combat radius or datalink reach. Missing information is not zero, and a larger figure does not establish combat effectiveness.
The comparison that matters
A target-designation claim requires the relevant fitted equipment and compatible support chain. Do not infer identical electronic-warfare packages or designation capability from shared family branding. Neither system should be confused with a loitering weapon whose airframe is itself expended on the target.
Understanding Orlan-10
Orlan-10 is primarily a tactical reconnaissance and support UAV. Its relationship to artillery observation and wider mission packages should be distinguished from the terminal attack function of a loitering weapon.
Payload packages vary; electronic-warfare and intelligence roles should be tied to the relevant system configuration.
Understanding Orlan-30
Orlan-30 is associated with artillery reconnaissance and target designation. The sensor and designation function is an important comparison point, not merely the difference between two model numbers.
A target-designation capability requires the appropriate fitted payload and supporting weapons integration, not just an airframe label.
How to read the specification table
The table compares the named Orlan-10 and Orlan-30 catalog records, not an artificial combination of every advertised upgrade. Values are reproduced with their existing units and qualifications. Where figures describe different missions or payload types, treat them as context rather than calculating an unsupported performance advantage.
A published maximum is not necessarily achievable alongside every other maximum. Endurance may change with equipment, flight or sea conditions and transit requirements; a range figure may describe a different constraint from datalink reach. Unknown specifications remain unknown. For development programs and limited-disclosure systems, an intended capability must stay distinct from a completed trial or operational service.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main difference between Orlan-10 and Orlan-30?
Orlan-10 and Orlan-30 are related tactical reconnaissance references, with Orlan-30 particularly associated with artillery target designation. The practical distinction concerns sensors and supported fire-control tasks, not merely a larger model number.
Can the headline specifications establish a winner?
No. The mission, actual configuration, supported force and quality of evidence determine what the figures mean. Maximum speed, endurance and payload alone do not establish combat effectiveness, survivability or equal intelligence collection.
Where can I verify the versions and figures used here?
Follow the Orlan-10 and Orlan-30 profile links for full descriptions, timelines and any listed source references. This guide preserves the catalog's uncertainty labels rather than presenting unpublished or weakly sourced figures as independently verified facts.
Sources and further reading
- Orlan-10: full catalog profile, timeline and source notes
- Orlan-30: full catalog profile, timeline and source notes
Specifications are drawn from the linked catalog profiles. Source dates and aircraft configurations may differ; see the individual profiles for their timelines and qualifications.