A $300 FPV downs a $20,000 bomber drone. Ukraine tests an EW shield for it

Ukraine is conducting tests on electronic-warfare technology to safeguard expensive heavy bomber drones and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) from cheaper, smaller FPV drones. The project has progressed to field trials, with multiple prototypes distributed to military units, according to RBC-Ukraine. The conflict has become a proving ground for the financial aspect of unmanned combat, where a mass-produced quadcopter can bring down platforms costing several times more, prompting both volunteer organizations and defense firms to seek electronic countermeasures.

The cost disparity is significant, with a heavy bomber potentially priced at around $20,000, while an FPV drone capable of damaging or destroying it can be acquired for approximately $300. Ukrainian officials note that bombers are particularly susceptible to such attacks due to their slower speed and reduced maneuverability compared to smaller FPVs.

Ukraine must continue using the larger drones for delivering essential supplies to hard-to-reach areas. The military has approached defense firm Dignitas to protect these platforms, collaborating with company Aura on the task. Developing EW systems that can neutralize hostile drones without disrupting the Ukrainian platforms' own communications poses a technical challenge.

The goal is to create EW technology that can counter enemy drones without cutting off the Ukrainian platforms' communication links. Dignitas and Aura are currently testing these systems at training facilities, with several samples already delivered to military units. Ukraine aims to have the solution operational within two months as its reliance on unmanned ground systems rapidly grows.