Ukraine introduces benefits for fiber optic drone manufacturers

Ukraine has adopted bills that provide customs and tax benefits for manufacturers of fiber-based drones.

The Brave1 cluster reported that the President of Ukraine signed bills No. 13305 and No. 13306.

From now on, manufacturers will be able to import optical fiber, fiber optic harnesses, cables, and fiber optic cable reels used for the production and repair of UAVs without paying import duties (draft law No. 13305).

It is also allowed not to pay VAT on the import of components for drones required for defense purposes (Draft Law No. 13306).

The benefits will apply exclusively to manufacturers who manufacture or repair products for the needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, other military formations, law enforcement or intelligence agencies.

Only supplies to such government entities will be considered as targeted use and will be subject to tax exemption.

This decision is expected to reduce production costs, speed up the supply of components, and open up opportunities for large-scale production of drones resistant to electronic warfare (EW).

Currently, there are two ways to counteract the FPV drones: direct destruction, for example, with shotguns, or suppression with electronic warfare (EW).

UAVs, including FPV drones, can be detected by drone detectors using a characteristic radio signal, which allows soldiers to prepare for an attack in advance.

In turn, there is a competition between electronic warfare manufacturers and drone manufacturers: the former are looking for ways to jam the control and video transmission frequencies of drones, while the latter are looking for ways to improve signal security. However, FPV drones that are controlled via fiber optic cable are absolutely immune to electronic warfare.

In addition, it cannot be detected by a UAV detector due to the absence of radio control signals and video transmission. The operator also receives an almost perfect picture on his monitor from the drone’s camera.

In Liutyi, the Unmanned Systems Forces of Ukraine tested domestic fiber optic modules “Silkworm”, which are designed to be installed on air, land and sea drones.