Ukraine Deploys Jam-Proof Sky Devil Drone That Can Navigate Without GPS

Ukraine has codified and launched serial production of the Sky Devil reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle, a fixed-wing drone designed to operate without GPS navigation.

According to Militarnyi on April 1, the system was developed by Ukrainian company SkyAtom, which specializes in surveillance and reconnaissance technologies.

The drone is already available for procurement through the Brave1 Market platform, indicating readiness for broader deployment within Ukraine’s Defense Forces.

The Sky Devil is equipped with a gyrostabilized camera system that integrates both daylight and thermal imaging capabilities in a single unit.

The platform uses the Next Vision Raptor system with up to 80x zoom, enabling target detection at extended distances. The optical camera can operate at ranges of up to 4.6 kilometers, while the thermal imager reaches up to 2.5 kilometers.

A key feature of the drone is its ability to function without reliance on GPS signals. Navigation is conducted using beacon-based systems, allowing the UAV to operate in environments affected by electronic warfare and signal jamming.

In terms of performance, the Sky Devil has an endurance of up to four hours, a tactical operational radius of 70 kilometers, and a maximum range of up to 280 kilometers. The system is designed to function in challenging weather conditions, including winds of up to 15 meters per second.

The drone is launched via catapult and recovered using a parachute system, reducing logistical complexity and simplifying operator training requirements.

According to Militarnyi, the Sky Devil has received official codification along with a NATO code, enabling its integration into Ukraine’s military inventory and facilitating standardized use across units.

Earlier, Ukrainian drone developer General Chereshnya and US-based Wilcox Industries agreed to establish a joint venture in the United States to produce FPV and interceptor drones. The partnership aims to localize production for the US defense market, pursue Blue UAS certification, and combine Ukrainian battlefield experience with American engineering capabilities.

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