Active efforts are underway in the russian federation to create a cost-effective solution for equipping FPV drones with the so-called machine vision, which allows the drone to at least detect a target designated by the operator and autonomously attack it without operator involvement, thus neutralizing the effect of EW.
The main challenge of such functionality lies in the requirements for cost and dimensions. However, currently, the adversary is actively progressing in this direction.
Read more: Ukrainian EW Manufacturer Commented on Appearance of Drones With Machine Vision On Battlefield
In the russian media, information has spread that a single-board computer, named Grape Pi 1, was "created" in the FabLab laboratory of the Crimean Federal University. It is known that the computer measures only 40x40 mm and has 1 GB of RAM, a slot for an SSD card, as well as ports for USB 2.0, HDMI, and video-out.
It should be noted that "created" is not the correct word in this case, as it refers to a device assembled from Western civilian microchips.
In particular, even the marking of the 1 Gb RAM by the Japanese company Elpida is not concealed. It is also known that it uses the Allwinner H616 processor (a Chinese brand), which includes a graphics processor and is designed for TV smart boxes. It's quite possible that it's actually about a circuit board soldered from a TV set-top box, which has been upgraded with additional ports. Nevertheless, the software is most likely indeed a russian development.
Certainly, the Grape Pi 1 remains a semi-research prototype, indicating that the implementation of this specific solution is still quite distant.
However, this serves as a prime example highlighting the extensive efforts in russia towards developing solutions for FPV drones. A multitude of diverse groups, including both enthusiasts and state manufacturers, are actively involved in the endeavor.
And in this situation, Ukraine is left with nothing but to exert even greater efforts. Therefore, it should be noted that the first samples of Ukrainian FPV drones with machine vision are already on the front lines and are destroying the enemy. However, such projects require additional support.
Read more: Ukrainian FPV Drones With Shrapnel Munitions Work Great on the Battlefield (Video)
