MOSCOW, January 11. /TASS/. Russian specialists have developed a series of optical guidance systems to turn kamikaze drones into homing air torpedoes, and these products are currently being tested in the special operation area, says Dmitry Kuzyakin, CEO of the Center for Integrated Unmanned Solutions (CCBR).
"There are several guidance systems for FPV kamikaze drones developed in Russia. These optical self-guidance systems are only being tested at the contact line, but this technology has huge potential. Targets do not have to be stationary, as this system can also work against moving and even airborne targets," he told TASS.
He went on to explain exactly how this technology works.
"An FPV pilot manually pilots a drone to the expected target location over enemy territory. As soon as a target is detected, the pilot points the targeting frame at it and gives a lock command. After that, they switch their FPV drone into homing airborne torpedo mode. After that, the drone attacks the target on its own and destroys it," the specialist underscored.
According to the CEO, this will make life easier for pilots.
"The new systems make it so that losing communication when a drone approaches the ground at a large distance is a thing of the past. Pilots will no longer have to go to the ground and pilot their drones until the very last moment when they make contact with the enemy. Now, drones will be able to perform a final approach and eliminate the enemy on their own. The use of these new systems will make it possible to make the work of FPV crews safer and more efficient," Kuzyakin said.
He also underscored that these guidance systems will give combat FPV drones new capabilities they currently do not have.
"One such restriction is the limited range when working near the ground. During the final approach to the target, FPV pilots have to go to the ground level, which leads to loss of video feed and disruptions in the control channel. The further away a target is, the harder it is for a pilot to lower their drone, and one needs to fly as far as possible, and to destroy ground targets, including moving ones," Kuzyakin said.
Currently, FPV drone crews have to move as close to the enemy as possible to effectively fight ground targets.
"This poses threats for the mission and the FPV crew itself, which is unacceptable. Being close to the enemy forces FPV crews to risk their lives in order to perform their missions. There are several engineering crews in Russia working on the issue simultaneously," the CEO said.