UAV Carrier and Kamikaze: Ukraine Developed a Small River Drone Called Ursula

A new unmanned surface vessel called Ursula, approximately one meter long, has been developed in Ukraine.

The Association of Ukrainian Engineers announced that NoviTechNet is developing the drone.

Its versatile design allows it to perform several tasks simultaneously.

In particular, the drone can conduct reconnaissance, monitoring rivers, canals, and coastal areas.

Ursula is also capable of performing kamikaze drone functions, carrying explosive charges to destroy enemy targets.

Additionally, the boat can transport a small unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), which conserves the UAV’s battery power and enables it to operate in unexpected locations.

“This drone is suitable for sabotage and reconnaissance operations in difficult conditions of river networks and frontline water areas,” the association shared.

Similar technology

This is not the first small unmanned boat in Ukraine. This year, the Defense Forces began testing small river unmanned boats called Black Widow 2.

Black Widow 2 is also 1 meter long. It weighs 8 kg, can reach speeds of up to 40 km/h, and has a range of up to 10 km.

The onboard battery is sufficient for several hours of operation, but if necessary, the boat can be put into standby mode for several days while waiting for a target.

The drone is equipped with a camera on a rotating platform that can rotate both horizontally and vertically. The camera can also operate at night.

Controlling an electric boat only 1 meter long seems like child’s play, but the vessel is more dangerous than you might think. In addition to spy and reconnaissance missions, the river drone can be loaded with kilograms of explosives. Its payload is 3 kg, which, according to the developer, is enough to destroy small boats and motorboats.