Ukraine approves domestically produced Svitlovod FPV drone for combat use

The ‘Svitlovod’ drones feature a sturdy frame, high-performance engines, and lightweight, energy-dense batteries. Designed for frontline effectiveness, these systems use a fibre-optic control channel and can carry combat payloads across distances of several dozen kilometres.

Each drone is equipped with automatic target detection and recognition systems to enhance precision. Depending on mission requirements, the aircraft can be fitted with either day or night cameras.

The Ministry noted that the ‘Svitlovod’ system is highly mobile and can be deployed into a combat position within minutes. It represents a rapid-response asset for frontline units requiring flexible and secure aerial support.

Since the beginning of 2025, the Ukrainian military has authorised more than 60 unmanned aerial systems equipped with fibre-optic control channels. The inclusion of the ‘Svitlovod’ system highlights Ukraine’s continued push to integrate domestically developed technologies into its defence operations.