The Ukrainian Antonov state enterprise developed the Horlytsya UAV, a tactical UAV Platform, for conducting reconnaissance missions in support of the country’s ground forces. Its prototype has completed the first flight.
It has been informed by the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine, Oleksandr Turchynov, that numerous applications can be fulfilled by this tactical UAV, such as reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting by using air-to-ground missiles.
This Unmanned aerial vehicle has an endurance of 7 hours, a maximum operating altitude of 5 thousand meters, and a range above 1000 kilometers.
Further, he added, “As soon as we optimize semi-strategic level, the next step is strategic level UAV development.”
As per defenseworld.net, the Horlytsya is the first domestic air vehicle that has the capabilities to perform combat tasks.
Nowadays, these types of air vehicles are produced by numerous countries, such as the United States, Israel, Italy, France, China, and Turkey.
The development of a similar air vehicle requires at least five years and millions of dollars in investments.
The purpose of this UAV design was to support Ukrainian Ground forces in conducting day and night reconnaissance under all weather situations and transmitting the received data to the command post.
Compared with other air vehicles, this UAV provides good endurance – not less than 7 hours—and is capable of conducting reconnaissance through the electro-optic and infrared sensors with target tracking capabilities.
The given UAV enables to development of operational communications and reinforces fighting units that perform errands in the key role of the enemy.
It is part of a vital unmanned aviation complex that will include four drones of this sort, a ground control station, and workplaces for moving and landing aircraft, transportation, and repair.
