Iran fields updated Shahed-101 kamikaze drone

Iran has used a modified version of its Shahed-101 loitering munition, featuring structural changes and an electric propulsion system, according to reporting cited by the Ukrainian defense outlet Militarnyi.

The development reflects ongoing evolution of Iranian one-way attack drones, which have been used in regional conflicts and in Russia’s war against Ukraine. Analysts say design changes in the new version may affect how the drone is detected and deployed.

According to Militarnyi, Middle East security analyst Mohammed al-Basha identified the modified drone based on its external appearance and the distinctive sound produced during flight.

The report states that the drone uses an electric motor driving a tractor propeller mounted in the nose, a configuration different from earlier Shahed drones. Most drones in the Shahed family use gasoline piston engines with rear-mounted pusher propellers, which produce a recognizable sound signature during operation.

The new configuration places the propulsion system at the front of the aircraft, pulling the drone through the air rather than pushing it from the rear.

This arrangement may reduce acoustic and thermal signatures while altering the aircraft’s aerodynamic profile. The drone retains a fixed-wing airframe design, allowing it to travel long distances while maintaining relatively stable flight characteristics.

According to the report, the aircraft’s tail section uses an X-shaped stabilizer configuration, which helps control stability during flight.

The drone also appears to employ a rocket booster mounted at the rear of the fuselage, which assists with launch.

Such boosters are commonly used by loitering munitions and cruise drones to accelerate the aircraft during takeoff, particularly when launched from ground-based rails or mobile launchers. Once the booster burns out, the aircraft transitions to powered flight using its main propulsion system.