In a significant leap forward for battlefield technology, Ukrainian company 3DTech has successfully codified its line of “Khyzhak REBOFF” fiber-optic unmanned aerial systems (UAS) with the Ministry of Defence. These aren’t your average FPV drones; they’re engineered to be virtually impervious to enemy electronic warfare (EW), a game-changer in the ongoing conflict.
The increasing reliance on FPV drones in combat operations has met a formidable challenge: sophisticated Russian EW systems. 3DTech’s innovative solution? Spooling out tactical dominance with fiber optic tethers ranging from 10 to an impressive 20 kilometers. This physical link ensures a secure, unjammable command and video feed, allowing Ukrainian forces to operate with unprecedented reliability in heavily contested airspace.
Development of these groundbreaking drones kicked off in 2023, directly addressing the urgent needs voiced by Ukrainian soldiers on the front lines. Rigorous testing saw the drones conquering water obstacles like rivers and lakes, and even navigating above power lines at speeds reaching up to 143 km/h. By 2024, initial test batches were already in military hands, proving the immense potential for scaling this technology.
Today, 3DTech boasts a portfolio of five distinct fiber-optic models, all actively deployed with combat brigades and effectively utilized by FPV operators.
Meet the “Khyzhak REBOFF” Lineup: Tailored for the Tactical Edge
The “Khyzhak REBOFF” series offers a versatile range of capabilities, each optimized for specific mission profiles:
- Khyzhak REBOFF 10 Lite 10KM: Designed for repelling assaults and urban warfare scenarios. Its optimal effective range is 8-9 km, allowing a 10-20% fiber reserve for maneuvering and environmental factors. This model packs a punch with a 1.8 kg payload, making it exceptionally lethal at shorter distances. The company emphasizes that its relatively shorter operational distance contributes to its high success rate, as longer fiber lines inherently carry a greater risk of severance.
- Khyzhak REBOFF 10 Lite 15KM: A cost-effective workhorse for the front lines, adept at engaging enemy armor and maneuvering within structures. The extra 5 km of fiber comes at a minimal payload reduction of just 300 grams, still allowing a 1.5 kg warhead – more than sufficient for neutralizing armored vehicles with HEAT rounds or infantry with fragmentation.
- Khyzhak 13 REBOFF 20KM: When critical frontline infrastructure like enemy artillery, mortars, or EW systems need to be neutralized, this 20km-range model steps up. It features a dual-battery setup, enhancing balance, maneuverability, and overall pilot control.
- Khyzhak REBOFF 15KM: This variant excels in ambush tactics. Operators can position the drone near enemy supply lines and loiter for hours, awaiting high-priority targets. Powered by a single 8S3P 13,500 mAh battery block (unlike the dual blocks in 20-25km versions), this configuration allows for an increased payload.
- Khyzhak REBOFF 10KM (Heavy Lift): Boasting the heaviest payload capacity in the series at 2.2 kg, this 10km drone is invaluable for blunting enemy offensives, frontline engagements, and urban combat.
Across the board, the entire “Khyzhak REBOFF” line is rated for flight altitudes of up to 500 meters and cruising speeds of around 70 km/h. However, some models have impressively unspooled their fiber optic cables at speeds up to 143 km/h during testing.
Designed for the Demands of Modern Warfare
Responding directly to military feedback and combat experience, 3DTech has equipped all “Khyzhak REBOFF” drones with specialized quick-release fasteners. This allows for rapid assembly and disassembly without the need for cable ties – a crucial time-saver in the field. Each UAS also comes standard with landing gear for safe launches, landings, and static observation during ambush scenarios.
Furthermore, in a nod to adaptability, the REBOFF fiber optic spools can be retrofitted onto existing 10-inch and 13-inch radio-controlled drones from other manufacturers already in service with Ukrainian units, offering a versatile upgrade path.
Looking ahead, 3DTech is already preparing for the codification of drones with even longer 25km and 30km fiber optic tethers. This advancement promises to further enhance the capabilities of Ukraine’s Defence Forces, enabling them to effectively strike targets deeper within enemy territory. The era of EW-resistant drone warfare is here, and Ukraine is leading the charge.
Source: Ministry of Defence of Ukraine
