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Ukraine has begun testing long-range fibre-optic controlled drones to gain a military advantage against Russian forces.
The tests, conducted by Ukrainian defence initiative Brave1, trialled more than 15 first-person view unmanned aerial vehicles equipped with 20-kilometre range fibre-optic technology. Seven manufacturers of fibre-optic controlled unmanned ground vehicles (UGV) also participated in the event.
The systems were designed to navigate a course over 20 kilometres, avoid obstacles and simulate targeted strikes. Fibre-optic-enabled systems have traditionally been limited to five to 10 kilometers.
In addition, the systems are expected to prove effective in immunity to electronic warfare, being less detectable by radio emissions, being clearer in video transmission at extended distances and having fewer limitations from the radio horizon.
“Fibre optics is a game-changer in communication and electronic warfare. It provides a stable connection that is impervious to enemy jamming,” said Captain Oleksandr Yabchanka, commander of the robotic systems service of the Da Vinci Wolves battalion.
“We are very interested in integrating fibre optics so our UGVs can operate at greater distances and help us destroy the enemy even more effectively.”
The Ukrainian military will continue working on scaling and improving drone systems, as well as developing countermeasures against enemy fibre-optic technologies, according to Brave1.
The tests were reportedly overseen by Deputy Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Brigadier General Andrii Lebedenko and the Armed Forces of Ukraine Innovation Management Directorate.
