The Russian-built Orlan-10E tactical reconnaissance drone made its first official flight in Indonesia on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at Langit Cibubur, East Jakarta. According to the Indonesian Ministry of Defense (Kemhan RI), the flight launched a joint exercise program organized in collaboration with the Embassy of the Russian Federation to evaluate modern, combat-tested aerial defense technology.
Joint UAV Exercise at Langit Cibubur Led by Kemhan RI
The planning session for the joint military product training was led by the Secretary-General of Kemhan RI and attended by the Head of the Defense Technology Agency of Kemhan (Kabatekhan Kemhan). According to the Ministry, the demonstration allows Indonesian defense officials to directly examine, assess, and consider adopting adaptive tactical unmanned aerial systems that have seen active service in Ukraine.
Did you know? The Orlan-10E is manufactured by Special Technology Center (STC), a defense tech firm based in St. Petersburg, and serves as the export-approved variant of the standard Orlan-10 platform.
Technical Specifications of the Orlan-10E Drone
Weighing 18.5 kilograms, the Orlan-10E features a high-wing tactical design, launches via a catapult system, and relies on an emergency recovery parachute for landing. Powered by a small-displacement gasoline engine, the UAV achieves up to 16 hours of continuous flight endurance with a direct control range of 120 to 150 kilometers from its Ground Control Station (GCS).
Its primary operational capability stems from a modular payload system. According to technical briefs, operators can quickly swap payloads to integrate gyro-stabilized optical and thermal cameras, Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) gear, or Leer-3 Electronic Warfare (EW) consoles designed to track and block adversary communication networks.
Battlefield Performance and Ukrainian Frontline Assessments
The platform’s combat reputation extends directly from ongoing conflicts in Eastern Europe. Andrii Biletskyi, commander of Ukraine’s 3rd Assault Brigade and founder of the Azov Regiment, stated in an interview with Ukrainska Pravda that Russian forces maintain a significant operational-taktis UAV advantage, with the Orlan-10 acting as a primary threat to ground troops.
According to Biletskyi, the Orlan-10 functions as a persistent aerial eye that directs artillery fire, tracks artillery movements, and intercepts ammunition supply convoys in real time alongside Lancet and Geran-2 kamikaze drones. Western-built air defense systems and signal jamming tools face severe operational challenges in neutralizing the aircraft at the front lines.
Integration Goals for the Indonesian Armed Forces
The flight trials at Wiladatika Airfield in Cibubur provide the Indonesian military with critical empirical data to gauge how operational-taktis UAV classes fit into national defense doctrines. The presence of the Kabatekhan Kemhan highlights Indonesia’s strategy to secure knowledge transfer, improve system interoperability, and conduct thorough evaluations before making formal procurement choices.
Through this technical partnership, Indonesia aims to expand defense diplomacy with Russia while ensuring that future fleet expansions rely on thoroughly proven combat platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who manufactures the Orlan-10E drone?
The Orlan-10E is produced by Special Technology Center (STC), a defense manufacturer located in St. Petersburg, Russia.
What is the flight endurance of the Orlan-10E?
According to technical specifications, the drone can remain airborne for up to 16 hours nonstop with a direct control range of 120 to 150 kilometers.
What payloads can the drone carry?
The UAV utilizes a modular payload system capable of hosting gyro-stabilized optical/thermal cameras, Signal Intelligence (SIGINT) equipment, and Leer-3 Electronic Warfare consoles.
Join the Defense Discussion
What are your thoughts on Indonesia’s exploration of modern tactical UAV technologies? Share your perspective in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on national defense developments.