Ukrainian drones equipped with AI elements - NASU president

Scientists from the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine (NASU) are actively developing intelligent control systems for Spectator unmanned aerial systems.

NASU President Anatolii Zahorodnii said this in an interview with Ukrinform.

According to the academician, these advanced control systems enable Ukrainian drones to operate autonomously, without being affected by radio interference or other external disruptions.

"The Spectator can independently select its flight altitude and identify targets -- these are highly advanced functions, incorporating elements of artificial intelligence. These capabilities are already integrated into the Spectator M-1M model, which is currently in production," Zahorodnii said.

Since the Spectator is a primarily reconnaissance drone, its developers prioritized silent operation.

"Our scientists developed a hydrogen fuel cell, a quiet converter that transforms chemical energy into electricity," Zahorodnii said.

He also highlighted NASU's role in training drone operators, noting that the academy's certified training centers have prepared 3,700 operators who are now serving on the front lines.

Back in 2015, recognizing the need to bolster Ukraine's defense industry, NASU launched a research program focused on enhancing the nation’s defense and security. The program was coordinated with key ministries, the Ukrainian Armed Forces, and the General Staff, Zahorodnii said.

According to him, since then, approximately 30 military innovations have been implemented, with another 50 currently undergoing testing.

"From 2022, we have intensified these efforts using general funds allocated to the Academy. Our scientists are developing materials for infrared homing missile heads, advanced rockets, and a technology for manufacturing shell bodies designed to produce maximum fragmentation upon detonation. We have also proposed lightweight yet durable mobile shelter modules to protect against shelling," he said.

The Spectator-M1 UAS, an upgraded version of earlier Spectator drones developed by JSC Meridian named after S.P. Koroliov, was adopted by the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 2019.

Designed for both day and night reconnaissance, the Spectator-M1 can fly at altitudes up to 3,600 meters, with a maximum speed of 120 km/h and an operational speed of 70 km/h. It can remain airborne for over two hours and has a flight range of up to 150 km. The system transmits digitally encrypted video data, ensuring secure communication.