The developers of the quadcopter with the Russian thermal imager UAV400T, which is used in the special operations area, are working on modernization of the device and increasing its flight range. The general director of the Optical and Mechanical Design Bureau (OKB) “Astron” Vladimir Popov told about it, TASS reported.
Mini drones are used at the Ukrainian front for reconnaissance and correction of artillery fire. “Undoubtedly, we are increasing both the number and quality of such vehicles. At the first stage, all our actions were subordinated to one requirement – faster and as fast as possible. In parallel with the increase in quantity, we are working to improve characteristics, such as the interference protection of communication channels, reducing the size, increasing the flight range and others. But the most important thing right now is the quantity,” Popov said.
According to him, the most important feature of such vehicles is that they can carry multi-channel opto-electronic stations and transmit the picture to the operator in real time.
“Unmanned complexes are integrated into a single tactical control system, which speeds up the delivery of data to higher headquarters and firing units. Experience has shown that such UAVs, especially those capable of operating at night or in poor visibility conditions, are now in high demand,” the Astron CEO explained.
He noted that UAV400T is designed to work as part of small units, and the main task of the complex is to detect objects that have a thermal signature different from the background. The UAV is equipped with a fully domestic thermal imaging camera and domestic software, and makes it possible to detect vehicles and people at night.
Vladimir Popov emphasizes that the feedback from the NWO area is good. “I think it is inappropriate to talk about exact numbers, but it is clear that it is many hundreds of units,” he added.
The UAV400T drone was first demonstrated at the Army-2022 international military and technical forum. The apparatus is capable of detecting human life at a distance of up to 400 m and enemy equipment at a distance of up to 800 m. The drone flight time is 45 minutes and the flight height is up to 3 km. The radius of action of the drone is more than 5 km.
