news 
Russia’s military has taken a significant step forward in the world of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with the deployment of solar-powered ambush drones. A recent sighting of a Russian improvised solar drone in Ukraine highlights the growing importance of innovative, long-enduring UAVs on the battlefield.
The sighted drone, as seen in the Kherson region, has a makeshift setup of solar cells draped over its body. This unconventional design may not be the most efficient or aesthetically pleasing solution, but it showcases Russia’s willingness to adapt and evolve their drone technology.
The concept of ambush drones is not new, with operators landing them near potential targets, waiting for a chance to strike before taking off in pursuit. However, the addition of solar panels raises the stakes significantly. This development could potentially lead to a new generation of UAVs that can wait indefinitely for targets, effectively becoming a perpetual surveillance system.
In an interview, OSINT analyst DanielR shared his insights on the matter. “Using it [the solar charger] is troublesome given the voltages involved,” DanielR explained. “Instead, it’s probably just connected to the 5-volt bus, which powers VTX and camera, without any additional circuitry.” He further added that this setup allows the drone to act as a CCTV sentry during daylight hours, saving battery power for when a target is spotted.
The solar-powered drones can be used in various scenarios. They could form ‘minefields’ of high-tech surveillance drones, which would periodically sweep areas for any unwanted intruders. These unmanned sensors could also work in tandem with other autonomous systems to create an overwhelming presence on the battlefield.
Source: www.forbes.com
