Ptashka Drones launches serial 18-inch FPV drone for the military in Ukraine
The first serial 18-inch FPV drone has appeared in Ukraine: the Ptashka Drones company showed a platform designed for a larger warhead and increased flight range.
The first serial 18-inch FPV drone has appeared in Ukraine: the Ptashka Drones company showed a platform designed for a larger warhead and increased flight range.
According to the specialized publication «Military», this is the first Ukrainian FPV of this size to be officially launched into mass production. Ptashka Drones has released footage of the drone being tested with various types of ammunition, demonstrating the platform’s operation under real combat load.
The increased frame size allows the drone to carry a heavier warhead and generally lift a larger payload. This opens up the possibility of using more powerful means of attack: against fortified positions, equipment, or more complex targets, where standard FPV often does not give the desired effect.
A separate advantage of the dimensions is the energy reserve. A larger battery and fiber optic coil can be installed on the 18-inch platform, which increases the range and stability of control. For units operating at distances of up to 5 km, this means more maneuverability: the drone can go around, look for vulnerable points and stay in the air longer.
At the same time, such a form factor does not pretend to become a «universal soldier.» Large FPVs will likely be used as a complement to the massive fleet of smaller drones, which are more convenient for close-in strikes, work in built-up areas, and rapid serial sorties.
Currently, the Defense Forces are actively using 15-inch class FPV drones: they are equipped with both standard warheads and grenade launchers or small arms. The appearance of the 18-inch «production» one actually creates the next stage of escalation: from «light» FPVs to heavier machines capable of performing more complex assault and defense tasks.
For the Ukrainian drone industry, this is another signal of the transition from artisanal solutions to linear production with specialization by platform class. Serial heavy FPVs give the army predictable quality, compatibility of components and the ability to plan tactics for specific types of vehicles, and manufacturers a chance to gain a foothold in the market of heavy front-line «drone hardware.»
Previously, dev.ua wrote about how the Ukrainian military began shooting down Russian reconnaissance quadcopters over the battlefield using anti-aircraft missiles.
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