The Ukrainian military is trialing a new type of fiber-optic drone on the front lines, offering a strategic advantage against Russian forces. Unlike traditional radio-controlled drones, these are tethered to the ground by thin fiber-optic cables, providing secure communication that cannot be jammed by electronic warfare.
These drones can reach speeds of up to 60 kilometers per hour and maintain a stable connection within a 10-kilometer radius. The fiber-optic cable transmits high-quality video back to the ground, offering real-time intelligence until the moment of detonation. The drones can carry small payloads and fly at low altitudes, making them effective in navigating urban areas or dense forests where radio signals are typically blocked.
Serhiy Beskrestnov of the Ukrainian military highlights that the drones have proven especially useful in forested regions where radio signals usually fail, allowing forces to safely travel along roads that were once shielded from drone attacks. “Previously, enemy drones struggled to penetrate deep into forested areas due to the loss of signal,” Beskrestnov explains.
However, these drones are not without their challenges. The fiber-optic cables can become tangled or obstructed by objects, and the added weight of the unwinding mechanism limits the payload capacity. “Initial tests were not successful due to issues with the optical fiber coils, but recent trials have shown viable solutions from at least six manufacturers,” Beskrestnov adds.
Russia had previously led the way in deploying fiber-optic first-person-view (FPV) drones, particularly in the Kursk region. However, Ukraine’s advancements in this technology are now enhancing its ability to counter Russian forces on the battlefield.
