Ukrainian Armed Forces may receive AI-powered FPV drones

The Ukrainian Armed Forces are testing next-generation FPV drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), in what could mark a major leap forward in modern warfare capabilities, The Wall Street Journal reports.

According to the publication, members of Ukraine’s elite Bulava unit — part of the Presidential Brigade — have been experimenting with AI-enabled drones that can autonomously strike targets, even under conditions of intense electronic warfare (EW) interference. Once a pilot selects a moving target, the drone can execute the attack on its own from up to 700 yards (approximately 650 metres), even if the signal is jammed.

“FPVs using artificial intelligence could become the next big thing,” said a unit member known by the call sign Udav, who demonstrated a drone outfitted with a miniature AI chipboard. He revealed that their current model is already in its sixth generation and has shown no failures in testing. “Improved versions are coming out every few months,” he added.

The technological edge has significantly boosted morale and effectiveness on the battlefield. “Previously, when you saw 15 Russian vehicles, it was scary. Now it’s fun,” Udav remarked. “Sadly it’s the same for the enemy’s drone units.”

The unit has also developed cost-effective munitions to be deployed by drones. A bomb maker from the group uses 3-D printers to manufacture drone-dropped mines that cost just $9 each. These devices embed themselves in the ground and deploy multiple 26-foot-long tripwires with small anchors, designed to target advancing Russian infantry.

By Vugar Khalilov