The Ministry of Defence showcased FPV drones controlled using fiber optics to the Armed Forces of Ukraine

The Defence Innovation Directorate within the Ministry of Defence conducted a presentation test of FPV drones controlled via fiber optic cable for representatives of the commands from the Armed Forces of Ukraine's various services and branches. The event was part of programs focused on introducing innovations and developing the Army of the Future. 

During the event, several domestic manufacturers showcased over a dozen models of drones, with some capable of carrying payloads of up to 3 kg. Experienced UAV operators, potential users of the latest technology on the battlefield, directly observed the demonstration flights. 

 “The enemy is continuously advancing its capabilities in utilizing fiber-optic drone control technologies, which urgently requires taking steps to diminish enemy advantages in this domain.  Domestic manufacturers demonstrate their readiness to swiftly adapt to the modern challenges of war and implement the latest developments. Currently, we can see clear evidence of the equipment functioning effectively, showcasing its efficiency, and importantly, the ability to rapidly scale these technologies to meet the military’s needs,” said Lieutenant Colonel Yevhenii Tkachenko, Head of the Unmanned Aerial Systems Department within the Defence Innovation Directorate.

The UAV operators of the Armed Forces of Ukraine expressed favorable opinions about the drones' tactical and technical characteristics, which were validated during the test flights, and showed interest in procuring such assets to meet the needs of their units.

“Although this technology is not new, it remains highly effective in the context of modern warfare and the enemy's active electronic countermeasures. Despite the specific peculiarities of using this type of drone, they are essential for successfully accomplishing certain special tasks. We expect that with their help the efficiency of combat missions will increase significantly,” said Ihor Y., an external pilot and UAV operator of one of the Armed Forces of Ukraine's units. 

According to Yevhenii Tkachenko, several of the assets presented at the demonstration are in the final stage of codification and will soon be supplied to the Ukrainian Defence Forces.