Ukrainian producers test fiber-optic FPV drones

This was reported by Deputy Prime Minister for Innovation, Development of Education, Science and Technology, Minister for Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov on Telegram, Ukrinform saw.

"A testing ground was set up for 15+ UAV manufacturers to test their projects. Fiber-optic drones have become game changers on the battlefield, being absolutely invulnerable to electronic warfare and invisible to the enemy," the Deputy Prime Minister noted.

Fiber-optic control, the official explained, secures high-quality communication between the operator and the UAV, which has a big impact on the battlefield situation.

Fedorov noted that during the round of tests, drones flew a 20km route with obstacles and simulated an approach to the target. Previously, the flight range of such drones flew only 5 to 10 km but now they are capable of hitting targets at a range of over 20 km.

Seven participating teams also tested ground robotic systems, also controlled via fiber optic cables.

“The enemy has significant experience in this area, so now we must engage as much as possible and develop this technology. Testing in conditions close to combat is a mandatory stage in development before any deliveries to the front lines,” Fedorov noted.

Testing at training grounds, the official stressed, helps manufacturers spot imperfections. Developers will next set to fix any identified issues and work on solutions to counter Russian fiber optic FPVs.

As reported, the Brave1 cluster is a single platform for cooperation between defenes technology developers and companies, government, and army. It was launched late April 2023.

The cluster's team and specialized experts provide developers with financial, informational and organizational support to achieve technological superiority over the enemy.