Unmanned Systems Forces are testing domestic fiber optic modules called Silkworm, which are designed for installation on air, ground, and sea drones.

The USF press service published the video of the equipment.

There are two versions of the coils for kamikaze drones: one with an integrated warhead and the other with a built-in battery.

FPV drones equipped with the Silkworm module retain their maneuverability and can cover over 20 km.

According to the USF, drone crews do not feel the difference between radio-controlled and fiber-optic models with the Silkworm.

“The Unmanned Systems Forces continue to scale the use of fiber optic modules by integrating them into various types of combat platforms,” the statement said.

Development of fiber optic modules in Ukraine

In early January, it was reported that the cost of fiber optic drones has dropped significantly due to increased production, and prices may fall even further for Ukrainian companies.

Currently, China is the main supplier of fiber optic cable reels for drones. It supplies both Russian and Ukrainian FPV copter manufacturers.

Ukraine already has factories capable of spooling finished fiber optics, which is critical for reliability and reducing the risk of cable breakage during flight.

Ukrainian operators are actively using such drones in combat.

In particular, on February 22, it was reported that FPV drones of the 414th Madyar’s Birds separate brigade of unmanned aerial systems destroyed Russian armored vehicles in a hangar at a distance of more than 20 km using fiber optic control.