Reactive Drones unveiled the POP Fly UAV, capable of performing both reconnaissance and strike missions

The Reactive Drones company has unveiled a versatile unmanned platform POP Fly, which can be used both for reconnaissance and as a strike UAV. Company owner and director Oleksii Kolesnyk shared the details with Militarnyi during the Brave1 Connect event.

The platform is launched from a tube into which all the components of the device are placed. There are two types of launch tube – pneumatic and one with a pyrotechnic cartridge. After launch, the drone unfolds its wings and begins its flight. The reconnaissance version is equipped with a parachute to return to base and for subsequent maintenance. The platform allows the payload to be changed: a camera or a combat load of up to 2–2.5 kg can be installed in the smaller version, and up to 5 kg in the larger one.

In the reconnaissance configuration, the flight range is 100–120 km; in strike drone mode, it ranges from 50 to 100 km, depending on the type of ammunition. The software and communication system are unified with drones such as the “Kazhan” and the “Shmavik”. The platforms operate within the same ecosystem: coordinates can be transmitted between devices to carry out tasks.

The new drones are ready for serial production. Testing of the reconnaissance version is currently being finalised, after which trials in kamikaze drone mode will begin. Codification is planned following the completion of all tests.

The company also reported that “Shmavik” drones are already being supplied to the Ukrainian military – several contracts have been signed for the delivery of this model, including as part of state procurement. According to Kolesnyk, the drone was developed as a conditional replacement for the Mavic, but with expanded functionality: the “Shmavik” is capable of deploying small munitions and operating in both daytime and night-time conditions. The device’s optical system provides a combined zoom of up to 45x, including a five-times optical zoom.

Among the main requirements of the military for the drone are an increased flight range, payload capacity, and automation. To resolve communication issues, the company has developed its own communication system and continues to work on improving navigation, particularly through the creation of an antenna based on two Genesis modules.