Russian developers will begin test flights in March of the stratospheric drone "Argus", which will be able to operate as an airborne communication operator and provide users with high-speed Internet. The project is being considered as an alternative method of data transmission based on a principle similar to the Starlink system, Izvestia reported.
The head of the project, Nicolas Oksman, said that the device can transmit high-resolution video, maintain communication and coordinate the work of other drones.
This is important, given the fact that Russia does not have a very large group of satellites capable of transmitting such volumes of data in real time.
"Argus" will operate at an altitude of about 15–24 km, which will increase the survivability of the device and allow it to remain in a given area for a long time. The developers plan to equip the device with solar panels, which will ensure almost continuous flight in automatic or manual mode.
A special feature of the project is the ability to quickly move the platform to the desired area and keep it there for stable communication. In addition to military tasks, the developers are considering using the drone for monitoring ice conditions, transmitting data for logistics and supporting agriculture.
Oksman said in December 2024 that "Argus" will be able to carry a payload of up to 40 kg. In its front part, an optical module with a rotating platform will be placed, designed for installing devices for observation and remote sensing of the Earth.
Read more on the topic:
- An engineer from Tatarstan has patented an unmanned stratospheric aircraft with vertical take-off and landing
- Replacing expensive satellites: the unmanned stratospheric platform "Barrage-1" has been successfully launched in Russia
- The world's first hybrid of an airplane and an airship will be created in Russia
