TechUkraine Launches Contest to Develop Drone to Combat Russian Reconnaissance

Ukraine Launches Contest to Develop Drone to Combat Russian Reconnaissance

Lancet-3 drone - Ukrainian combat drones are to protect against this drone.

Images source: © ZALA Aero

8:09 PM EDT, April 3, 2024, updated: 2:12 PM EDT, April 4, 2024

The Defense Technology Development Cluster "Brave1", supported by Ukrainian authorities, unveiled a competition on April 3 to design an unmanned fighter drone. This initiative aims to counteract Russian drones like the ZALA or Orlyan models.

Operating under the state's endorsement, "Brave1" focuses on finding technological advancements to bolster the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Its role includes offering organizational, informational, and financial backing for Ukraine's defense technology ventures.

Ukraine seeks unmanned fighter drones

At the start of April, "Brave1" launched a contest to develop an unmanned fighter drone for the Ukrainian military. This technology is intended to intercept enemy surveillance drones, preserving valuable Air Force assets. The drone must be capable of flying between 62-93 mph and achieving altitudes up to 4921 feet. The winner of the competition will gain assistance in project development and refinement.

The desired unmanned fighter drones represent a cost-effective solution for combating Russian reconnaissance drones. According to the Military Portal, these drones have started to penetrate up to 31-37 miles beyond the frontline, gathering crucial intelligence on Ukrainian forces, command systems, logistical movements, and valuable military assets for targeted destruction.

"Brave1" has emphasized that the upcoming Ukrainian unmanned fighter drone will counter models like the ZALA, Orlyan, or SuperCam. Notably, the ZALA drones, a product of the Zala Group—part of the Kalashnikov Group—pose a significant threat. The Lancet-3, used by Russians to strike Ukrainian positions and machinery, exemplifies this menace.

The Lancet-3 can carry loads up to 6.6 lbs, with a maximum takeoff weight of 26.4 lbs, travel at speeds topping 68 mph, cover a range of around 25 miles, and sustain flight for about 40 minutes. Its capabilities and optoelectronic guidance for precision strikes render it a formidable challenge to Ukrainian defenses.