The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has officially approved a lineup of fiber-optic FPV drones of Ukrainian manufacture called “Predator” REBOFF. These drones stand out for their high resistance to electronic warfare measures and their ability to perform a variety of combat missions, highlighting their importance in modern military operations.
The development of the “Predator” drones is carried out by the company 3DTech, which became the first Ukrainian manufacturer to complete the codification procedure for an entire line of fiber-optic unmanned aerial systems. These drones are equipped with fiber-optic reels ranging from 10 to 20 km in length, allowing them to be adapted to the needs of different combat units.
The design of the fiber-optic “Predator” drones began in 2023 in response to military requests. During testing, the drones successfully overcame water obstacles such as rivers and lakes, as well as flew over power lines at speeds up to 143 km/h. In 2024, the first test batches were handed over to the Armed Forces of Ukraine, confirming the promise of this technology in the war against Russia.
“Predator” REBOFF Drone Models
The company 3DTech offers five models of fiber-optic drones that are already actively used in the combat brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine:
“Predator” REBOFF 10 Lite 10KM – designed for repelling assaults and urban combat. The effective flight range is 8-9 km, taking into account fiber reserve for maneuvering. The drone can carry a combat payload of up to 1.8 kg, making it optimal for short distances.
“Predator” REBOFF 10 Lite 15KM – a budget option for frontline operations, effective against both vehicles and indoors. An additional 5 km of fiber increases the flight range, while the combat payload is reduced by only 300 grams. A 1.5 kg payload is sufficient to destroy armored vehicles or enemy personnel.
“Predator” 13 REBOFF 20KM – a model with a 20 km reel, aimed at destroying frontline infrastructure, including artillery, mortars, and electronic warfare systems. Equipped with two battery packs for better maneuverability and balance.
“Predator” REBOFF 15KM – powered by a single 8S3P 13,500 mAh battery pack, allowing for increased combat payload. In combat conditions, the operator can use it for ambushes near enemy logistics lines, waiting for the appearance of a priority target.
“Predator” REBOFF 10KM – carries the largest payload in the lineup – up to 2.2 kg at a distance of up to 10 km. Ideal for repelling attacks and fighting on the frontline, particularly in urban environments.
Features and Future Development
The entire “Predator” drone lineup is designed to fly at altitudes up to 500 meters at speeds up to 70 km/h, although some models reached speeds up to 143 km/h during tests. 3DTech has equipped the drones with quick-release mounts for rapid assembly and disassembly without using straps, as well as legs for safe takeoff, landing, and waiting in ambushes.
REBOFF reels can be connected to drones from other manufacturers already in use within units, allowing for the modernization of radio-controlled UAVs to fiber-optic technology. Currently, the company is preparing for the codification of models with 25 km and 30 km reels, which will significantly enhance the capabilities of Ukraine’s Defense Forces in combating enemy vehicles and personnel in the rear.
At the end of April, the Brave1 Market marketplace was launched in Ukraine, where military units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine can independently select modern equipment for combat use and purchase it with funds from military units, facilitating the rapid updating of arsenals and increasing defense effectiveness.
