Ukraine’s Fiber Optic FPV Drones Transition to Radio Control Upon Cable Disconnection
Ukrainian Military Tests Dual-Control FPV Drones
The Ukrainian military has successfully tested a First-Person View (FPV) drone that integrates both fiber optic and radio control channels. This development allows operators to maintain control of the drone immediately if the fiber cable fails during flight. Tetyana Chornovol, a Ukrainian journalist and member of the Verkhovna Rada, announced this advancement on March 22, 2026, as reported by Militarnyi. The system was designed by an engineer within her platoon, and the addition of dual-channel capability increases the cost by approximately UAH 2,500 compared to standard fiber-optic-controlled drones.
Addressing Cable Failure Issues
Fiber optic cables are prone to breaking during long-range flights, which can result in the loss of the drone and its payload. Additionally, cable loops can disrupt the video feed without breaking the fiber. The new dual-control system allows the drone to switch to radio control, enabling it to continue flying while the cable unwinds itself.
Chornovol emphasized the importance of this technology, noting that losing a drone with a heavy payload far from its target is highly stressful for the crew. While performance on radio is slightly less reliable than on fiber, it ensures that the drone can still reach its target. The dual-channel system also mitigates the impact of cable shortages, allowing units to complete missions without wasting valuable fiber resources.
Development and Production of Dual-Control Drones
The initial dual-control drones were modifications created by soldiers in the field. Recognizing the potential, General Cherry, a Ukrainian drone manufacturer, formalized the design and produced a batch of ten thirteen-inch airframes equipped with integrated dual-control systems for military testing.
General Cherry is known for its active role in drone manufacturing, having previously developed the AIR Pro interceptor drone. The OPTIX fiber-optic FPV platform, which is designed for strike missions in electronic warfare environments, is a separate product line from the interceptor drone.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Despite the advancements, fiber optic FPV drones still face challenges, particularly related to cable durability. The technology has gained traction since Russia’s use of similar drones in mid-2024, with Ukraine‘s Brave1 defense cluster now housing over 25 engineering teams focused on this technology. Domestic production capabilities have increased significantly, allowing for the manufacture of thousands of units monthly.
While the dual-control system does not eliminate the risk of cable breakage, it provides a solution that allows missions to continue despite such failures. The ongoing development of this technology reflects a broader trend in Ukrainian drone innovation, where battlefield modifications are rapidly recognized and standardized by manufacturers.
Conclusion
The dual-control FPV drone represents a significant advancement in military drone technology, addressing critical issues related to cable failures. As the Ukrainian military continues to innovate, it is expected that more manufacturers will develop similar systems, enhancing operational capabilities on the battlefield.