Surveillance from a Height: Training of FPV Drone Operators in Ukraine

With the beginning of the war in Ukraine, effective training of military FPV drone operators was needed. This type of equipment has become an indispensable tool for reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and other combat tasks. In Ukraine, several schools specialize in the training of military FPV drone operators, each making an invaluable contribution to strengthening the country's defense capabilities.

The KRUK UAV Operator Center, founded in April 2022, has become a reliable training platform. Headed by Victor Taran and supervised by 30 instructors, the center conducts classes on training grounds and in computer classrooms. Over 4,000 operators graduated since its establishment, with the majority performing combat tasks at the frontline. Training programs are certified by the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine, and graduates receive a flight book and a certificate approved by the Ministry of Defense.

Another school, Global Drone Academy (GDA), founded on April 5, 2022, is also an authorized training center of the state "Drone Army" program. By early April 2024, the academy had trained 4,241 operators, including 2,969 military personnel and 1,272 civilians. Training is conducted by 24 qualified instructors with combat experience, which ensures high standards.

The actual training of military FPV drone operators consists of several stages. In the first stage, cadets study the theoretical foundations, in particular, the structure and principles of operation of FPV drones, the basics of aerodynamics and navigation, as well as safety techniques when working with unmanned aerial vehicles.

The next stage is practical training, during which cadets learn to operate FPV drones in various conditions. They practice taking off, landing, and maneuvering, as well as performing specific tasks such as area reconnaissance and artillery spotting. This phase also includes simulations of combat situations, allowing cadets to prepare for real conditions. The final stage is the exams and graduation. Cadets demonstrate their skills in real-world environments, performing tasks similar to those during combat operations. Upon completion of the course, they receive certificates and are thus ready for combat missions on the battlefield.

Cooperation between training organizations and private companies in the training of military FPV drone operators is crucial. An example is the contribution of the company and its founder Tymofiy Solovyov, which actively cooperates with educational organizations, providing them with support in the form of equipment, maintenance, and drones for training. Since 2022, Solovyov's colleague, Oleh Stelmah, has been training military FPV drone operators. During this time, he prepared hundreds of pilots who successfully performed combat missions, gaining recognition for their achievements.

"Before the full-scale war, Oleh was a YouTube blogger, creating videos about FPV drones, in which I also participated. Together we contributed to the development of this branch in Ukraine. Today, Oleh shares his experience with our defenders for free and has my support with the necessary equipment and drones. We are continuing our joint work aimed at strengthening the defense capabilities of our country," says Tymofiy Solovyov about cooperation.

It is important to note that the RC STORE team systematically develops and implements new technologies and imports innovative components into the country to supply UAV operator training centers.

This cooperation not only increases the professional level of our military but also contributes to national security with every trained FPV drone operator being another step in strengthening the defense potential of our country. During the war, such initiatives are of great importance, helping to save lives and ensure the performance of combat tasks with minimal losses.

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