The Russian concern \"Kalashnikov,\" which became world famous for the production of AK assault rifles of various modifications, has expanded its product line by establishing the production of fiber optic drones. Such drones have a direct connection with the operator, therefore they are not susceptible to the effects of enemy electronic warfare systems. This is written by military expert Peter Suchiu in an article for The National Interest.
Currently, the Russian company supplies an improved Quasimast drone (according to the concern's classification, an equipment lifting system) capable of staying in the air for almost 20 days.
According to the author, \"Quasimast\" is the most modern fiber optic UAV in Russia. Also, against the background of other drones of this type, the UAV \"Prince Vandal of Novgorod\" stands out, Suchiu emphasized.
According to some reports, \"Prince Vandal of Novgorod\" was created on the basis of the Chinese Skywalker drone. This indicates that Beijing helped Moscow in the development of UAV platforms.
Russia is placing a big bet on fiber optics, the expert noted. And all because fiber optic drones are immune to interference, since there is no data transmission via radio waves (the standard method of communication between drones and operators). Russian military personnel use a cable through which data is transmitted at high speed without loss of quality.
In addition to the range limitation, the fiber optic cable increases the weight and reduces the payload of the drone. In addition, there is a problem with obtaining such components.
China is considered the largest producer and exporter of fiber optic cable. It is also produced in the USA, Mexico, Japan. Italy, India, but in smaller volumes, Suchiu summarized.
Characteristics of the Quasimast equipment lifting system:
- total payload weight of the device — 2 kg;
- maximum take-off weight — 11 kg;
- control of the device — via a power cable 100 m long;
- deployment time — no more than 10 minutes;
- folding time — up to 5 minutes.
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