Brave1 tests Ukrainian drone equipped with terminal guidance system from Dutch company FDCL

Dutch company FDCL carried out demonstration autonomous drone interceptions in an “air-to-air” format together with the state platform Brave1, Ukrainian manufacturers, and military units.

The trials took place as part of the Test in Ukraine programme. The developed computer vision-based automatic terminal guidance system was integrated into the Ukrainian Wovkulaka Spitfire interceptor drone. During the trials, the system demonstrated high efficiency in detecting, tracking, and automatically intercepting aerial targets.

The demonstration included testing of an autonomous drone interception system in conditions close to combat. FDCL stated that the system demonstrated accuracy and adaptability while engaging aerial targets. Specialists in the C-UAS (Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems) field were also present during the trials to assess the system’s performance.

The company states that its solution provides autonomous drone interception, while operators remain responsible for overseeing critical decisions.

FDCL also noted that the system is intended to reduce the cognitive workload on pilots and ensure stable interception of aerial targets.

Earlier, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine announced the deployment of small turrets equipped with artificial intelligence modules to defend against enemy UAVs along the contact line and in frontline regions as part of the development of short-range air defence (SHORAD) systems.