Darknode Unit Shoots Down Shahed FPV Carrier for the First Time

Russian troops used a Shahed (“Geran-2”) kamikaze drone as a carrier for FPV drones.

This was reported by the Darknode Unit of the Unmanned Systems Forces.

According to the unit, the use of Shahed as a drone carrier was recorded on the night of March 10. Two FPV drones were attached to its carrying wing, one on each side.

The enemy drone was destroyed before it had a chance to deploy its payload, so it is currently impossible to determine its exact purpose.

It is likely that Shahed could have served as a reconnaissance drone, a signal repeater, or a kamikaze strike drone.

It should be noted that information about the use of Shahed as a drone carrier appeared in mid-February. At that time, radio engineering expert Serhii Flash released a video filmed over the Sumy region.

Earlier, on February 3, Militarnyi reported that fragments of a Russian Gerbera multifunctional drone, which was also used as an FPV drone carrier, had been found in Ukraine.

This solution allows the invaders to deliver kamikaze drones over much greater distances without draining their batteries during flight.

The carrier drone itself can act as a signal repeater for FPV, providing real-time control.

Given the Russians’ problems with using Starlink satellite communication terminals, other communication channels may be used to control such drones.

In addition, it is possible that FPV drones can be pre-programmed and, after disconnection, fly autonomously to stationary targets.

Previously, the Molniya drone was used as an FPV carrier, but it was not equipped with a repeater.

The invaders also used the Orlan reconnaissance UAV for similar tasks, which carried two quadcopter-type drones under its wings.