The Russian military has begun field tests of the new "Shturmovik" ground-based drone, capable of delivering up to 20 kilograms of payload over a distance of up to 30 kilometers. The launch of the approbation of the development in real combat conditions was announced by the developer company "Drone Force Aero".
The drone's design partly echoes the ideas of the legendary "Tsar Tank" from the First World War: large wheels ensure cross-country capability, and compact dimensions allow the device to be used as a "waiting drone" for ambushes. Experts emphasized that the name was chosen for a reason – the device is designed to support assault units.
The key technical solution is a fiber-optic communication line. It makes control resistant to enemy electronic warfare systems and allows control to be maintained even in difficult weather conditions: rain, mud, or smoke do not affect the signal. If the fiber optic cable is damaged, a backup digital communication module is automatically activated.
"Drone Force Aero" added that the low visibility and maneuverability of the "Shturmovik" increase its survivability on the front line. Currently, the drone is undergoing testing in the Russian army, where interaction with infantry is being practiced and its effectiveness in real-world scenarios is being evaluated.
