Evil Birds Backfire
Ukrainian fixed-wing strike and bomber unmanned aerial vehicle, developed in the early 2020s, deployed in tactical bombing operations.
| Powerplant | 1 × electric engine |
| Maximum speed | 84 km/h (52 mph) |
| Operational range | 200 km (124 mi) |
| Service ceiling | 1,000 m (3,281 ft) |
- Cluster Bomb 9N235 fragmentation submunition
Description
The Backfire (also designated Backfire K1) is a Ukrainian reusable tactical strike and bomber unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by the "Evil Birds" ("Zli Ptakhy" or "Raging Birds") team, a member of Ukraine's Brave1 defence-technology cluster. Serial production of the Backfire K1 began on 5 April 2024. Each aircraft costs approximately 62,000 USD. The drone is launched via catapult and recovered by parachute, executing flights along pre-programmed routes without continuous operator communication.
Design
The aircraft utilizes an electric engine, a front-mounted propeller, and a V-tail configuration. The original version operates at an altitude of approximately 300 meters, with a maximum altitude of 1,000 meters and a cruising speed of about 84 kilometers per hour. Its combat range is up to 55 kilometers. The drone delivers munitions from bombing altitudes of 50 to 200 meters. The standard armament payload of up to 6 kilograms typically consists of two 9N235 (9H235) fragmentation submunitions taken from 9M55K Smerch multiple-launch rocket warheads.
Operational History
Operational missions target Russian artillery positions, logistics hubs, ammunition and fuel depots, air defense systems, and command posts behind the front line.
In January 2026, developers unveiled a modernized variant developed over 18 months. This version features modifications to the airframe shape, weight, and component layout, alongside upgrades to the catapult, control station, and communications. The payload capacity is increased to 14–17 kilograms, supported by a larger internal bomb bay. The maximum range was increased from 140–160 kilometers to 180–200 kilometers. Pre-production and prototype units of the modernized variant completed more than 50 missions.
Variants
- Backfire K1: The original production variant introduced in April 2024, featuring a 55-kilometer combat range, up to a 6-kilogram payload capacity, and a cruising speed of 84 kilometers per hour.
- Modernized Backfire: An upgraded variant unveiled in January 2026 featuring a redesigned airframe, a 14-to-17-kilogram payload capacity, and an extended range of 180 to 200 kilometers.