Ukrainian developers tested FPV drones on fiber optics.

Members of the Brave1 cluster conducted tests of FPV drones that operate even under the influence of electronic warfare, reported Mykhailo Fedorov, Deputy Prime Minister for Innovation, Education, Science and Technology Development, who is also the Minister of Digital Transformation.A test site was organized for 15+ UAV manufacturers to test their developments. Fiber optic drones have become game changers on the battlefield; they are completely immune to electronic warfare and undetectable by the enemy. Fiber optics ensure quality communication between the operator and the copter, which impacts the front line situation, Fedorov noted.According to Fedorov, the drones on the test site completed a route of over 20 km with obstacles and simulated an attack on a target. Previously, such drones could fly only 5-10 km, but now they can attack a target from over 20 km away.Seven participating teams of Brave1 also tested ground robotic complexes on fiber optics, conducting a test run.The enemy has significant achievements in this area, so we need to maximize our efforts and develop this technology. Tests in conditions close to combat are a necessary stage of development before deployment to the front. They help manufacturers identify shortcomings. Developers will then correct these shortcomings and seek solutions to counter enemy fiber optics, Fedorov noted.Tests of FPV drones and ground robotic complexes on fiber optics, conducted by Brave1 cluster participants, go beyond the usual capabilities of these technologies. They allow drones to operate even in the presence of electronic warfare and make them invisible to the enemy. Furthermore, fiber optics provide stable communication between the operator and the drone, positively affecting the situation on the front. Tests at the test site allowed for the identification and correction of shortcomings in the development of these technologies and improved their efficiency. The development and application of fiber optics by military forces could have great potential for ensuring communication and reducing vulnerability to enemy electronic interference.