Ukrainian Defense Ministry advisor Serhiy Beskrestnov has reported that Russia has enhanced its ‘Bliskavka’ drones, transforming them into cost-effective tools for battlefield reconnaissance and surveillance.
Previously regarded as one-way strike drones that detonate upon impact, these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have now been repurposed to fulfill multiple roles on the battlefield, according to information from Business Insider.
Technical improvements include the addition of extra batteries to extend flight range, high-definition cameras, and network modems to ensure stable communication. The reconnaissance version of the drone is devoid of explosive payloads but is equipped with a microcomputer and a camera featuring a tenfold optical zoom.
The modified ‘Bliskavka’ drones are significantly less expensive than advanced reconnaissance systems such as the Supercam or Zala Z-16. Beskrestnov estimates that the cost of producing one Supercam could fund the creation of 10 to 15 ‘Bliskavka’ drones, thereby reducing reliance on high-cost technology priced at up to $100,000 each.
Ukrainian military personnel have expressed their views on the modified drones. Dmitro Zhluktenko, a soldier in the 413th Unmanned Systems Regiment, noted that the production of these upgraded drones is relatively straightforward, making them an ideal combination of affordability and quality for reconnaissance missions. He described this initiative as a ‘mass-scale war effort,’ emphasizing that such drones enable the Russian military to rapidly increase both the quantity and effectiveness of its surveillance capabilities.
Russia has repurposed its 'Bliskavka' drones for reconnaissance, enhancing their capabilities while significantly reducing costs compared to traditional systems. This development allows for increased surveillance efficiency on the battlefield.
Source: Business Insider