The Russian reconnaissance drone "Orlan-10" has begun to be used as a carrier for FPV quadcopters. The device received pylons for suspending at least two attack drones; footage appeared online.
In this configuration, the "Orlan-10" acts not only as a carrier but also as a repeater, providing control of small UAVs at a distance.
Now the "Orlan" also tracks enemy drones in the air. To increase survivability, the device was equipped with an additional camera controlling the rear hemisphere.
This allows the operator to timely detect a threat and perform an evasive maneuver when attempting an interception. In an aerial duel, the crews are assisted by colleagues from EW units. Using the "Ornitolog" air monitoring system, they intercept the signals of "hunters".
The military said that maintenance of "Orlans" takes no more than half an hour – from landing to a new launch. The drones run on regular 95-octane gasoline and outwardly resemble a small aircraft. They are practically invulnerable to enemy electronic warfare systems.