New technology - the latest application of fiber optic drones on the battlefield

Traditional UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) typically rely on radio communication systems, where both the drone and its remote controller are equipped with radio transceivers. These systems allow for two-way transmission of commands, video, and telemetry data. However, a new innovation—fiber-optic UAVs—is emerging as a solution to modern electronic warfare challenges. This concept, first introduced by DARPA in 2000 under the “Close Combat Lethal Reconnaissance (CCLR)” program, was initially overlooked due to the effectiveness of conventional radio control systems at the time.

In the harsh electronic warfare environment of the Ukraine battlefield, UAV manufacturers have faced increasing difficulties as traditional RF signals are frequently jammed. Military vehicles are often equipped with drone jammers capable of creating wide protection zones. Portable backpack jammers and anti-drone guns further complicate the situation. In this context, fiber-optic UAVs have gained renewed interest and market potential.

Fiber-optic drones utilize optical fiber as a communication link between the UAV and the ground control station. This technology offers ultra-high bandwidth, low latency, and strong resistance to electromagnetic interference. At the core of a fiber UAV is the optical transmission system, consisting of a fiber transmitter onboard the drone and a receiver on the ground. The transmitter converts the captured video into optical signals, which are transmitted through the fiber and then decoded back into video at the ground station. This enables the transmission of high- or even ultra-high-definition video with superior stability in jamming-intensive environments.