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 learn from the experience of their Chinese colleagues, who are actively developing multi-rotor flying systems. This was stated by 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 a powerful thermal radiation from the engine as rotorcraft, which is why anti-aircraft missiles are guided at them.
The "military taxi" is not required to perform aerobatics, it is enough to fly a dangerous section at an ultra-low altitude at a speed of up to 130 km/h 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.
A 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 concluded.
