Ukraine’s Defense Forces are set to receive a promising reinforcement — an FPV drone carrier, currently being developed by Quantum Systems. The new platform, named Sparta, is intended to deliver FPV drones over long distances for precision strikes.
In July, Sparta already completed its first flights. The announced specifications include: a maximum takeoff weight of up to 23 kg, of which 8 kg is allocated for two FPV drones. The combat radius is 200 km, meaning Sparta can deliver both drones to that range and return to base. Flight endurance is reported at 6–8 hours.
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Footage shared on LinkedIn by company CEO Dave Sharpin (unfortunately without integration options) shows Sparta in flight, including missions where FPV drones were released mid-air.
These drones are most likely Quantum Systems’ own models, already in successful use by Ukrainian forces. The company, best known for its Vector reconnaissance UAV, also produces its own FPV drone.
German defense outlet Hartpunkt reports that serial production is expected to begin by the end of this year. According to co-founder Florian Seibel, the idea for Sparta emerged in April, and the first prototype was built in June.
The video also demonstrates that Sparta can be launched from a relatively compact catapult. In another post, the company stressed that Sparta is produced in Ukraine.
Overall, Sparta appears to be a mature solution, combining Quantum Systems’ expertise from the Vector drone, particularly its range and communication stability, with the added capability of delivering strikes deep into enemy-held territory.
Moreover, the company’s ongoing projects are enabling the creation of an integrated reconnaissance-strike loop: Vector, already equipped with a unique acoustic sensor for detecting artillery, conducts reconnaissance and target acquisition; Sparta delivers the loitering munitions; and the FPV drones carry out the destruction of targets.
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