The Brave1 defence technology cluster, together with Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence, tested reconnaissance drones from nine Ukrainian manufacturers. The trials aimed to find a Ukrainian alternative to China’s Mavic drones. Brave1 reported this.
Brave1 noted that Mavic drones are widely used by Ukrainian troops for tactical-level reconnaissance. At the same time, as the kill zone expands, requirements for drones are increasing: they must stay airborne longer, cover greater distances, and remain operational under enemy electronic warfare, and the capabilities of civilian drones are no longer sufficient for this.
As Brave1 explained, the task for manufacturers is not to copy the Mavic, but to develop a Ukrainian drone adapted to the conditions of modern warfare. In particular, such drones are expected to be resistant to electronic warfare, able to operate without GPS, have an endurance of at least 60 minutes, and offer remote control that allows the operator to remain at a safe distance. It is also important to retain the control interface familiar to the military to avoid lengthy retraining, Brave1 said.
Drones that confirmed their effectiveness during test-range trials and meet the military’s needs are moving on to the procurement stage. Meanwhile, manufacturers whose designs have not yet passed selection received feedback on the improvements required.
Brave1 says such trials make it possible to test Ukrainian technological solutions in conditions close to combat and to identify developments that are ready for further procurement and scaling within the armed forces.
Mavic is a series of compact civilian quadcopters made by the Chinese company DJI, widely used by Ukrainian troops for aerial reconnaissance, surveillance, and artillery fire adjustment. Thanks to their small size, high-quality cameras, and ease of operation, they have become one of the most common types of reconnaissance drones on the front line.