TAF Drones has unveiled its new relay drone, the FR1 “Kolibri 13”

Ukrainian drone manufacturer TAF Drones has unveiled a new unmanned aerial system, the FR1 “Kolibri 13”, developed in collaboration with the Darknode unit. It is a relay drone designed for missions in challenging terrain and in environments with active electronic warfare.

The new UAV system includes a carrier drone, an airborne signal repeater, and an optical positioning system. The drone features autonomous navigation and resistance to electronic warfare. This enables the system to maintain stable communication between FPV operators and drones even in the most challenging conditions — in urban environments, forests, or deep ravines, over long distances and under intense electronic warfare.

The FR1 “Kolibri 13” is entirely independent of GPS and maintains its position, altitude and azimuth using optical stabilisation. It autonomously escorts the FPV drone until the target is hit, then returns automatically. The drone has an operational range of up to 15 km and a flight altitude of up to 1,000 metres.

The system features a modular design, allowing for the quick replacement of antennas, RX, TX or VRX components in the field. It is compatible with analogue, digital and thermal imaging cameras, and is resistant to gusty winds and low temperatures.

According to the developers, the FR1 “Kolibri 13” has already undergone combat testing and is ready for deployment on the front line. It is also worth noting that TAF Drones previously presented the Babka tactical reconnaissance drone and the Last Mile automatic homing module.