Russian designer Ruslan Borisov has patented a high-speed unmanned aerial vehicle with an unusual aerodynamic design. A cylindrical duct is installed in the lower part of the drone's body – essentially, an air-breathing jet engine that operates in cruise flight modes. Inside the duct, a bladed machine is mounted on the engine shaft: air is drawn in through the inlet diffuser, compressed, and expelled through the nozzle, creating jet thrust.

Takeoff and landing are provided by four power plants with folding propellers, located on aerodynamic stabilizers. In horizontal flight segments, the propellers fold to avoid creating unnecessary drag, and the aircraft switches to jet thrust. The stabilizers not only control flight but also carry the engines with propellers.

According to the developer, this scheme reduces drag at cruising speed and increases the stability of the aircraft at all stages of flight. The technical characteristics of the drone are not disclosed in the patent. The invention may find application in cargo delivery and reconnaissance.