Photo: Brave1
For the first time in Ukraine, FPV drones that are controlled via optical fiber and can fly long distances were tested. These drones are reported to have the ability to cover several tens of kilometers, according to Brave1.
During the tests, more than 15 manufacturers of unmanned aerial vehicles tested their products at the range. In the tests, the drones covered more than 20 km without obstacles and simulated approaching a target.
Until now, the flight range of such drones was only 5–10 km, but this time solutions capable of hitting targets at distances of over 20 km were successfully tested.
Photo: Brave1
The advantages of optical fiber FPV drones include:
- Fully bypasses electronic warfare tools — such drones can perform combat tasks regardless of radio electronic barriers;
- Invisible to the enemy — due to not emitting radio waves, reconnaissance tools cannot detect them;
- Quality communication — allows stable and clear video transmission from long distances;
- Radio horizon does not affect — since they are not dependent on radio signals, drones can be effectively controlled over long distances.
The event also featured manufacturers of seven types of ground robotic complexes (YEURK) controlled via optical fiber, who demonstrated test control.
Photo: Brave1
"Optical fiber is a factor that changes the rules of the game in communication and electronic warfare, as it provides stable communication that cannot be affected by REK tools. We are very interested in implementing optical fiber, as it allows our YEURKs to operate over long distances and helps us eliminate the enemy more effectively," said Captain Oleksandr Yabchanka, head of the robotic systems service of the "Da Vinchi Wolves" battalion.
An optical fiber drone is an FPV drone controlled by an operator, which communicates via an optical fiber cable. The video signal is also transmitted through this cable. Thus, radio frequencies are not used in controlling such a drone, and it is not affected by electronic warfare tools.
