Ukrainian Defense Ministry Showcases Fiber-Optic-Controlled FPV Drones to Counter Russian Tech

The Main Directorate of Defense Innovations under the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine conducted a demonstration test of FPV drones controlled via fiber-optic cables, the Ministry reported in a press release on January 2.

The event was organized as part of programs aimed at fostering innovation and developing the army of the future, with representatives from various branches and units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in attendance.

“During the event, several domestic manufacturers showcased over a dozen drone models, some capable of carrying up to 3 kg of payload,” the press release stated. “Experienced UAV operators—potential users of this cutting-edge technology on the battlefield—observed the demonstration flights firsthand.“

The Head of the Unmanned Aerial Systems Division of the Ministry of Defense's Main Directorate of Innovations, Lieutenant Colonel Yevhenii Tkachenko, emphasized the importance of countering Russian forces’ advancements.

"The adversary continues to enhance its capabilities in using fiber-optic drone control technologies, making it crucial for us to neutralize their advantages in this segment," he said.

Tkachenko added that domestic manufacturers are proving their ability to swiftly adapt to the modern challenges of warfare and implement cutting-edge innovations.

“Today, this is evidenced by the successful performance of these systems, their demonstrated effectiveness, and, importantly, their readiness for rapid scaling to meet the military's needs,” the official added.

“Although the technology is not new, it is extremely effective in modern warfare conditions, especially under active electronic warfare countermeasures by the enemy,” said Senior Soldier Ihor Y., an external pilot and UAV operator from one of the Armed Forces of Ukraine units.

He noted that despite certain operational nuances of this type of drone, they are indispensable for successfully completing specific special missions.

“We anticipate that their use will significantly enhance the efficiency of combat operations,” Ihor Y. added.

On December 6, Armed Forces Day, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy delivered the first batch of domestically produced Peklo rocket drones to the Ukrainian Armed Forces.