A RAF Reaper UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) is pictured airborne over Afghanistan during Operation Herrick. It is armed with a full complement of two GBU-12 226kg (500lb) laser-guided bombs and four Lockheed Martin AGM-114P Hellfire air-to-surface missiles. The MQ-9 Reaper is a medium-to-high altitude, long endurance remotely piloted aircraft system. The MQ-9's primary mission is to act as an intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) asset, employing sensors to provide real-time data to commanders and intelligence specialists at all levels.
As reported by No Worries, Ukrainian researchers are actively contributing to the development of intelligent control systems for autonomous reconnaissance drones. Specifically, the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NASU) is involved in creating such technologies for the Spectator aviation complex, UkrInform reports.
NASU President Anatoliy Zagorodniy stated in a media briefing that the latest systems enable drones to automatically determine flight altitude, locate objects, and operate without interference from radio jamming, effectively integrating artificial intelligence elements.
Developers have also ensured the Spectator’s silent operation by utilizing a hydrogen fuel cell, which converts chemical energy into electricity, making the device undetectable to adversaries. This complex is already in production, and its advanced version, the Spectator-M1, can ascend to altitudes of up to 3,600 meters, fly at speeds of up to 120 km/h, and transmit encrypted video over distances of up to 150 km.
As part of training personnel to operate such drones, NASU has established certified training centers. To date, over 3,700 operators have been trained and are currently carrying out missions on the frontlines. At the same time, the Academy is implementing several other defense-related projects, including the development of materials for missile systems, technologies for ammunition production, and mobile shelters to protect military personnel from shelling.
Zagorodniy emphasized that the defense capability research program was initiated by NASU in 2015 and coordinated with the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff. This work has resulted in the implementation of approximately 30 military developments, with another 50 undergoing testing.
The Spectator-M1 unmanned aerial system, adopted into service in 2019, showcases the high level of Ukrainian science and its significant contribution to strengthening the country’s defense capabilities. It supports reconnaissance missions both day and night, combining technological excellence with the practical needs of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
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