The 414th Unmanned Strike Aviation Systems Regiment is leveraging cutting-edge fiber-optic technology to counter russia’s intensified use of drones in the ongoing war. The regiment’s commander, Robert Brovdi (with the Madjar callsign), shared insights into this innovative approach during an interview with Suspilne.
Robert Brovdi highlighted growing challenges posed by russia’s adoption of advanced drone systems impervious to electronic warfare.
Read more: The Abrams Tank’s Crew Reveals the Details of russian Assault With Fiber-Optic FPV Drones (Video)
“These fiber-optic drones are unaffected by terrain-induced signal degradation and operate at extremely low altitudes, between 20 to 50 meters, making them hard to detect and counter,” Robert Brovdi explained.
Unlike conventional drones that rely on analog frequencies susceptible to disruption, the fiber-optic drones bypass electronic reconnaissance systems entirely by emitting no radio signals.
To combat this threat, Ukrainian forces are developing sound detectors capable of identifying approaching drones. These detectors can provide critical early warnings, allowing personnel to seek shelter. Additionally, smoothbore weapons designed to fire pellet clouds are being tested as a potential countermeasure, though they remain limited in availability.
Robert Brovdi described the in-house process of creating fiber-optic drones: “We modify drone bodies provided by the state, replacing radio-electronic modules with the fiber-optic systems. A reel of fiber-optic cable, weighing about 1.5 kilograms, enables secure control over a 10-kilometer range. This leaves another 1.5 kilograms for combat payloads, allowing these drones to deliver precision strikes.”
The cost-effectiveness of these systems is also notable. A 10-kilometer reel of fiber optics costs roughly $150, while essential components like media converters are available for just $30.
Read more: Ukrainian Armed Forces Complete Testing Phase for Fiber-Optic Drones: One Step Away from Mass Deployment
