Valerii Churkin: The Ministry of Defence is increasing the number of fiber-optic-controlled drone models

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has codified and adopted the domestically produced ‘Hromylo Optic’ unmanned aerial system for deployment within the units of the Defence Forces of Ukraine. This was reported by the MoD’s Main Directorate for Support of the Life Cycle of Weapons and Military Equipment.

The ‘Hromylo’ drones, in various modifications, have been successfully carrying out missions within the Armed Forces of Ukraine for a long time and have already destroyed a significant amount of enemy equipment. Responding to military requests, the manufacturer produced larger variants of the ‘Hromylo’ drone, equipped with 10-inch frames. These drone models can carry explosive payloads powerful enough to destroy heavily armored tanks and fortified enemy positions. Equipped with fiber-optic control systems, the ‘Hromylo Optic’ drones feature selectable video systems with daytime, twilight, or night (thermal) cameras, ensuring precise and reliable target identification around the clock. The ‘Hromylo Optic’ drones are already being used by military units, with confirmed reports of successful hits on enemy tanks, armored personnel carriers, and firing positions.

The ‘Hromylo Optic’ represents a modern tool of warfare, with key advantages including its extended operational range and high strike effectiveness.

“Since the beginning of 2025, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has codified and adopted nearly 40 unmanned aerial systems with fiber-optic control, including about 15 in April alone. Our manufacturers are responding swiftly to frontline challenges. Those who are quickest to implement innovative solutions gain the advantage. We cannot afford to fall into the trap of illusions or underestimate the enemy’s technical capabilities, as they constantly advance. We must outpace them,” said Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Valerii Churkin.

A reminder to defense equipment manufacturers: helpful information on the procedure for codifying new models of weapons and military equipment is available here.

Photos are provided by the manufacturer