Ukraine’s Ruta Missile Drone to Receive Advanced GPS-Independent Navigation System

May 16, 2025 19:48 LUCILE BRIZARD

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The Ruta missile drone, currently used by Ukraine and capable of reaching targets up to 300 kilometers (186 miles) away, is set to receive a new navigation system designed to operate independently of GPS and electronic warfare.

Defense Express reported on May 16 that the updated guidance and navigation system will be supplied by Spanish company UAV Navigation, a subsidiary of Grupo Oesía.

This visual navigation system, based on the DSMAC (Digital Scene-Mapping Area Correlator) technology, uses real-time surface image analysis compared against reference images to guide the missile, particularly during terminal flight phases at low altitudes.

UAV Navigation confirmed that the system has already been tested in combat conditions. DSMAC-type systems are traditionally employed in full-sized cruise missiles but have recently been miniaturized and made more cost-effective through advances in digital technology.

Ukraine’s deployment of the Ruta missile drone was first reported in late 2024, during ongoing testing phases. Alongside Ruta, the manufacturer Destinus has supplied Ukraine with the Lord propeller-driven UAVs, which have ranges between 750 (466 miles) and 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles).

Although specific payload details for Ruta have not been disclosed, the missile’s warhead is estimated to weigh several tens to roughly 100 kilograms.

Earlier, the Polish Ministry of National Defense announced that the Polish Armed Forces will be equipped with Warmate loitering munitions, combat drones used effectively in Ukraine’s defense.