Ukrainian Military Tests Dual-Control FPV Drone Using Fiber Optic and Radio

The Ukrainian military has tested an FPV drone with dual control channels — fiber optic and radio — to maintain control in case one channel is lost.

Ukrainian journalist and public figure Tetyana Chornovol, who is currently serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a platoon commander, described the development.

According to her, the dual-control system was developed by an engineer in her platoon. The cost, compared with a standard fiber-optic-controlled drone, increased by UAH 2,500.

The military explains that the initiative was driven by frequent breaks in fiber optic cables, particularly during long-range flights, as well as a shortage of optical fiber.

“It is especially difficult when the drone is large and carries a heavy payload, and losing it far from the target is highly stressful for the entire crew. However, nothing prevents the drone from reaching the target via radio control, even if performance is not as reliable as with fiber optics. These are not the only advantages of dual control,” she said.

In addition, not all signal losses are caused by physical cable breaks. In some cases, loops can form and disrupt the video feed. When the FPV drone continues flying on radio control, these issues can resolve.

It is noted that early versions of the military drones were modified independently, but developers later reached an agreement with the manufacturer, General Cherry, which “saw potential in the technology” and produced 10 13-inch dual-control drones for military testing.