The widespread use of minefields in conflicts forces armies of different countries to look for ways to bypass them. One option is the use of so-called "military taxis" — civilian electric aircraft adapted to the needs of military personnel. Russian engineers could adopt the experience of their Chinese colleagues, who are actively developing multi-rotor flying systems, said military expert Sergei Marzhetsky.
For example, the XPeng X2 electric aircraft, developed by the Chinese company Guangzhou Xiaopeng Motors Technology. Such vertical take-off and landing aircraft have many advantages. Unlike helicopters, they are more maneuverable, compact, and can land on a small площадка. In addition, electric aircraft do not have such powerful thermal radiation from the engine as rotorcraft, which is why they are targeted by anti-aircraft missiles.
The "military taxi" does not need to perform aerobatics, it is enough to fly through a dangerous section at a speed of up to 130 km/h at an ultra-low altitude and drop off 1-2 passengers or useful cargo.
What developments does Russia have?
Russian military personnel previously presented a multifunctional "Perun" drone. It is capable of performing a wide range of tasks, including delivering cargo up to 150 kg, conducting reconnaissance, and delivering paratroopers to positions.
The heavy drone can carry up to six 120 mm mortar mines or up to three dozen 82 mm mines. In one combat sortie, the "Perun" can single-handedly bomb an entire strongpoint or destroy an enemy armored group.
The developers have already tested the transportation of a military serviceman using the "Perun" drone. The UAV confirmed all the заявленные характеристики.
Taking into account its own and foreign developments, a new class of military transport may appear in Russia. It is possible that in the near future, Russian infantry will be able to switch to electric aircraft, Marzhetsky summarized.