On April 15, 2024, the Ukrainian Defense Ministry confirmed the anticipated reinforcement of their aerial surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities with the arrival of significant Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) this summer, comprising 450 SkyRanger R70 drones, delivered by Canada.
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SkyRanger R70 reconnaissance drone (Picture source: Teledyne FLIR)
Developed by the American company Teledyne FLIR, these UAVs are capable of vertical takeoff and landing, fulfilling both reconnaissance and logistical tasks. The SkyRanger R70 is notable for its autonomous navigation system, which operates independently of satellite signals. It features an onboard computer system that can detect targets up to 5 kilometers away and can track up to ten moving objects simultaneously.
Constructed with durable materials like carbon fiber and magnesium, these UAVs are designed to operate under challenging conditions, enduring sustained winds of 65 km/h and gusts of up to 90 km/h, and can operate at altitudes of up to 4500 meters. Their design enables them to carry payloads of up to 3.5 kilograms, allowing versatility for a range of missions, including cargo delivery and ammunition drops.
In a collective defense effort, the Netherlands and Germany have commenced a joint purchase of €200 million worth of RQ-35 Heidrun reconnaissance drones. Produced by the Danish company Sky-Watch, these compact drones specialize in low-altitude reconnaissance and target detection, capable of being hand-launched and streaming video over distances up to 30 km. They also can create new 2D and 3D mapping material within a 25 km radius.
Furthermore, Germany has committed to enhancing Ukraine's surveillance resources by dispatching VECTOR 211 reconnaissance UAVs. This decision was made following the Drone Coalition's steering group meeting on April 14.
Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Katerina Chernogorenko emphasized the urgency of these contributions, referencing the evolving situations on the front lines and targeted attacks on civilian infrastructure. In her call for immediate action, she highlighted the need for tools that allow an asymmetric response to the conflict's challenges.
Additionally, previous statements from Canada have shown a commitment to providing advanced night vision equipment valued at approximately $5.5 million from Twenty20 Insight Inc., as well as nearly $30 million towards a Czech-led initiative to deliver around 800,000 artillery shells to Ukraine, meeting critical defensive needs.
Defense News April 2024
