Ukraine’s Ministry of Defence has formally adopted the “Hromylo Optic” unmanned aerial system for deployment with Kyiv’s army.
Previously used in combat under various configurations, these domestically produced drones have demonstrated high effectiveness in striking enemy equipment and fortified positions.
To meet operational needs, the manufacturer developed a larger version with a 10-inch (24-centimeter) frame.
This upgrade allows the drone to carry heavier explosives, powerful enough to destroy heavily armored tanks.
The Hromylo Optic uses a fiber-optic guidance system, making it less vulnerable to electronic jamming.
It also supports daylight, low-light, and thermal video modes for around-the-clock target identification.
Ukrainian military units have already deployed the system in the field, with successful strikes on tanks, armored personnel carriers, and enemy firing positions.
“Our manufacturers are responding swiftly to frontline challenges. Those who are quickest to implement innovative solutions gain the advantage,” said Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine Valerii Churkin.
“We cannot afford to fall into the trap of illusions or underestimate the enemy’s technical capabilities, as they constantly advance. We must outpace them,” added Churkin.
Advancing Local Technology
As part of efforts to ramp up domestic defense capabilities and counter Russia’s military edge, Ukraine is rapidly expanding its fleet of locally produced unmanned systems.
Since the beginning of the year, Kyiv has officially adopted nearly 40 fiber-optically guided unmanned aerial systems, with around 15 added in April alone.
Earlier this month, Ukraine launched an uncrewed surface vehicle capable of firing laser beams and launching drone swarms.
Moreover, Kyiv conducted its largest unmanned ground vehicle trial, with over 70 ground drones from 50 domestic manufacturers tested simultaneously.
