Ukrainian defense start-up Fold is developing a new first-person view (FPV) drone powered by fiber-optic technology, offering a range of nearly 100 kilometers (62 miles). This capability would more than double the operational distance of most FPV systems currently in use.
The drone builds on commercial quadcopter designs, which are inexpensive—often just a few hundred dollars—yet capable of carrying explosive payloads strong enough to damage or destroy armored targets. By adapting this low-cost model, Fold aims to provide Ukraine with an affordable but highly effective strike option.
Unlike traditional drones that rely on radio frequency links prone to enemy jamming, Fold’s design maintains control through a spool of fiber-optic cable connected directly to the operator. This approach ensures steady communication, even in contested environments saturated with electronic warfare.
If successful, the innovation could mark a major shift in how Ukraine employs FPV drones on the battlefield, extending both their reach and resilience against Russian electronic countermeasures.
