Ratel Robotics unveils seven new UAVs, including an interceptor and a 30-inch multicopter

Ukrainian company Ratel Drones has expanded its unmanned aviation division and presented seven UAV models for various applications. The new developments include reconnaissance platforms with electro-optical systems, strike multicopters, FPV drones, and the high-speed Squid-100H interceptor.

Defender Media outlines the features and key specifications of the presented drones.

Black Stork

Black Stork is a 30-inch multipurpose multicopter designed to transport payloads weighing up to 10 kg. It can remain airborne for up to 50 minutes and operate at distances of up to 15 km. Depending on the mission, the platform can be used for reconnaissance, striking targets, or providing logistical support to units.

For navigation without satellite positioning, the Black Stork uses StabX optical odometry. The system helps determine the platform’s movement based on visual data. The drone is also equipped with an electro-optical system for round-the-clock surveillance and uses Starlink for video transmission and control.

Squid

A separate niche is occupied by the Squid-100H, a drone for intercepting aerial targets. It is designed to destroy enemy UAVs directly in the air. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the platform’s maximum speed reaches 305 km/h, with a cruising speed of 180 km/h. Flight time is up to 15 minutes. The Squid-100H has a takeoff mass of 5.9 kg and a payload of 1.2 kg.

Owl

Ratel also presented two models from the Owl family. The Owl R is a reconnaissance multicopter with a 22-inch frame. Its primary surveillance tool is a camera with 30x optical zoom and image stabilisation. According to the manufacturer, a stabilised image is available at a distance of up to 3 km. Communication with the operator is provided via Starlink.

For strike missions, Ratel offers the Owl A. This 22-inch multicopter can carry up to 5 kg of payload. Stated specifications include a range of up to 30 km and a flight endurance of up to 45 minutes. As with the Owl R, Starlink is used for control and video transmission.

Sparrow

The Sparrow series represents more compact platforms. It encompasses three FPV models that differ in frame size, payload capacity, and signal transmission method.

The largest in this group is the Sparrow 10 with a 10-inch frame. It is designed for a payload of up to 2 kg and a range of up to 10 km. According to the stated specifications, the drone can remain airborne for up to 15 minutes, reaching a cruising speed of 60 km/h and a maximum speed of 90 km/h.

The Sparrow 7 features a 7-inch frame and a lower payload capacity of up to 1.5 kg. It has an operational range of up to 10 km, a maximum speed of 80 km/h, and a flight endurance of up to 15 minutes.

The third model in the series, the Sparrow OF, uses a fibre-optic communication channel. As a result, commands and video are transmitted between the drone and the operator via cable rather than a radio link. The platform has a 10-inch frame, can carry up to 1.5 kg of payload, and operates at distances of up to 8 km. Its cruising speed is 50 km/h, maximum speed is 80 km/h, and flight endurance is up to 15 minutes. The manufacturer also provides the option to increase the range using a launch platform, but does not provide a separate figure for that configuration.

Previously, Ratel Drones presented the R1 reconnaissance drone and the K1 strike drone. In addition, the company has developed its own platform for transporting and launching fibre-optic drones.