Fiber-Optic Predators

05/21/2025By Lawrence

Ukraine Drone Operator Modern Warfare

Russian forces in Ukraine began using fiber-optically guided drones built with Chinese technology last year. Now the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence has officially codified the 'Khyzhak REBOFF' (Predator REBOFF) series of fiber-optic-controlled FPV drones developed by Ukrainian company 3DTECH for military use. These drones, featuring spools of fiber-optic cable ranging from 10 to 20 kilometers, are designed to resist enemy electronic warfare (EW) tactics by eliminating reliance on radio signals. Initiated in 2023 in response to frontline demands, initial test batches of the Predator REBOFF drones were deployed to military units early this year - demonstrating the potential for scaling this technology to meet Ukraine's defense requirements.

Predator REBOFF 13 10KM - fiber optic controlled 13-inch FPV drone with 10KM range.

The Predator REBOFF lineup includes five models tailored for various combat scenarios:

10 Lite 10KM - optimized for urban combat with an effective range of 8–9 km and a payload capacity of 1.8 kg
10 Lite 15KM - extended range up to 15 km carrying a 1.5 kg warhead, suitable for targeting armored vehicles
Predator 13 REBOFF 20KM - equipped with dual battery blocks for enhanced balance and maneuverability, effective against enemy artillery and EW systems
15KM variant - designed to ambush enemy logistics lines
10KM model - carries a payload of 2.2 kg, ideal for frontline and urban engagements

All models are capable of flying at altitudes up to 500 meters and speeds up to 70 km/h, with some achieving 143 km/h during tests. 3DTECH also equips all Predator REBOFF drones with quick-attach mechanisms, allowing for rapid assembly and disassembly without additional tools, and each drone features landing gear for safe deployment and retrieval.

Predator REBOFF 10 LITE 10KM - fiber optic controlled 10-inch FPV drone with 10KM range.

The REBOFF fiber-optic spools can be integrated into existing 10- and 13-inch drones from other manufacturers, facilitating their upgrade to fiber-optic control. 3DTECH is also preparing to codify drones with 25 and 30 km spools, to further enhance Ukraine's capabilities to target enemy assets deep behind the front lines.