Ptashka Drones Unveils Larger 18-Inch FPV Model for Battlefield Operations

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Ptashka Drones, a Ukrainian defense technology company, has announced the start of mass production for its new 18-inch FPV drone. The announcement was made through the company’s official Facebook account, signaling a significant step forward in the evolution of Ukraine’s battlefield drone capabilities. The larger FPV platform is designed to expand operational flexibility while complementing existing smaller models already in service.

The new drone’s increased size allows for greater payload capacity, enabling it to carry heavier and more destructive warheads. This advancement is expected to enhance the effectiveness of close-range strike missions, particularly against fortified positions or armored targets. Engineers have also integrated larger batteries and fiber optic spool systems, extending flight endurance and operational range compared to earlier FPV designs.

Despite its larger dimensions, the drone remains optimized for short-range missions, with an effective combat radius of approximately five kilometers. Military analysts note that this limitation reflects the tactical role of FPV drones, which are primarily deployed for precision strikes rather than long-range reconnaissance. The 18-inch model is therefore positioned as a battlefield supplement rather than a full replacement for the smaller 15-inch drones currently in widespread use.

Official test footage released by Ptashka Drones shows the new 18-inch platform undergoing trials with various payloads. The video highlights its ability to carry different types of combat loads, reinforcing its role as a flexible strike asset. With mass production now underway, the company’s latest innovation is expected to further strengthen Ukraine’s drone fleet, providing frontline units with enhanced firepower and tactical options in the ongoing conflict.

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