Ukraine’s Latest Innovation is a 'Mother Drone' Capable of Carrying and Deploying Six FPV Drones Beyond Enemy Lines

Recently, a video surfaced online showing a previously unseen Ukrainian UAV in action, launching explosive-equipped FPV drones mid-flight. The concept behind this innovation is straightforward: a larger UAV serves as a delivery platform, transporting FPV drones closer to their targets for increased effectiveness. Capable of carrying up to six FPV drones beneath its wings, this UAV functions as, essentially, a flying drone aircraft carrier.

While detailed information about this new development is scarce—Ukraine avoids sharing specifics to prevent them from falling into Russian hands—the video itself reveals some insights.

Drone Aircraft Carrier

The benefit of this innovation lies in its ability to transport FPV drones deep into enemy territory by flying at high altitudes, far beyond the drones' individual range.

Ukraine possesses UAVs capable of evading enemy electronic warfare (EW) systems and penetrating 10-30 km into enemy territory. Their larger size enables longer flight durations and makes them less susceptible to certain air defense systems. FPV drones, due to their smaller size, cannot independently reach such areas, especially where EW systems are deployed—they might fail to reach their targets altogether.

In this way, the large UAV serves as a transport aircraft for small FPV drones equipped with explosive charges. It delivers them to the necessary area, where they are released and directed toward their targets, even deep behind enemy lines.

This development is especially significant given the density of drones on the battlefield. Russian forces often move their equipment deep behind the front line, rendering it inaccessible to infantry-launched FPV drones near the front. This "mother drone," as it is now being called, enables attacks on targets deep within enemy territory.

To counteract EW systems, Ukrainian developers are also employing fiber-optic-controlled drones, a topic covered in a previous article.

Combat Platforms

Ukraine continues to adapt and modify its designs to meet the realities of war, effectively creating full-fledged combat platforms.

For instance, Ukraine has previously demonstrated the evolution of maritime drones. Initially, these were essentially naval systems carrying explosive charges. Now, maritime drones can carry FPV drones and deploy them near the shores of occupied Crimea or Kherson. They can also carry launchers for R-73 missiles. These platforms have proven effective in destroying air defense systems and shooting down two helicopters.

Ukraine's technological approach is helping it gain an edge on the battlefield. In some areas, Russian tank superiority has been completely neutralized by drones, with over 9,000 pieces of Russian equipment lost. Furthermore, these advanced developments help preserve the lives of Ukrainian soldiers.