Engineers from "Laboratoriya Gagaring" company have integrated the "Podkhvat" (Pickup) mode into the "Kuznechik" (Grasshopper) communication module, which allows doubling the combat range of drones. The development was presented at the Center for Unmanned Systems and Technologies (TsBST).
The key idea is to transfer drone control between two operators during flight. The first pilot launches the drone and takes it to the maximum possible distance. Then, the second operator takes over closer to the target and completes the targeting.
In essence, the developers have implemented a control "relay" that removes the range limitation of a single crew. This method will allow striking targets deep behind enemy lines and over complex terrain where a direct radio channel is unstable.
It should be noted that the "Podkhvat" mode operates as part of the "Kuznechik" communication system, designed for FPV drones, aircraft-type devices, as well as ground and water platforms.
Increasing drone flight range is a key task for developers. Recently, "Aerokosmicheskie antennye sistemy" company also presented the "Efiron" control module, which allows maintaining stable communication with a drone under active electronic warfare suppression at a distance of up to 70 km.