Ukrainian forces are using the MICH-2000, a long-range drone adapted from Chinese civilian technology, to conduct deep-strike operations inside Russia.
Key facts
- •The MICH-2000 was used in an August strike against the cargo ship Nadezhda near Novorossiysk.
- •The drone's design was adapted from civilian UAVs sourced from a Chinese factory in late 2023.
- •The system is capable of carrying 60 kg of explosives.
- •The MICH-2000 has a maximum flight range of 2,000 km.
- •The drone is operated exclusively by the Security Service of Ukraine's Special Operations Centre Alpha.
In early August, Ukrainian forces struck the cargo ship Nadezhda near the Russian port of Novorossiysk using a previously unidentified drone. While observers initially compared the aircraft to Iranian-designed Shahed drones, it has been identified as the Ukrainian-made MICH-2000. The system is currently operated by the Security Service of Ukraine's Special Operations Centre Alpha.
By the numbers
Origins of the MICH-2000
The development of the MICH-2000 began in late 2023 when Ukrainian UAV developers traveled to China to source ready-made civilian drones for military use. This initial procurement mission served as the foundation for creating a specialized long-range system capable of deep-strike missions.
Capabilities and Deployment
The MICH-2000 is designed for long-range operations, with a reported flight range of up to 2,000 kilometers and a payload capacity of 60 kilograms of explosives. It is used exclusively by the Alpha Special Operations Centre to target infrastructure and assets deep within Russian territory.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Ukrainska Pravda (English).
