Everything you wanted to know about FPV drones, history, development and applications

18 October 2024 7 minutes Author: Murder

The article reveals the evolution of FPV drones from model aircraft to modern combat kamikaze drones. Learn about their features, types, and applications in various fields, including military intelligence and point-of-care attacks.

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The history of the first FPV drone began with the appearance of amateur drones in the world of model aircraft. The first FPV drones were built by enthusiasts who used low-resolution cameras and transmitters to stream video to pilots’ screens or goggles. In those days, drones were mainly used for competitions and hobbies.

The first models of FPV drones were not as complex as modern devices. They were created using the technologies available at the time, which included simple cameras and transmitters for the video signal. Over time, these systems became more affordable and better, which made it possible to control drones more precisely at a distance.

A technical breakthrough in FPV took place in the 2010s with the development of wireless communication technologies and the improvement of high quality compact cameras. This made it possible to significantly improve the control and maneuverability of drones, which made them popular not only among hobbyists, but also in professional fields, such as cinematography, cartography, and, later, military intelligence and combat operations.

The biggest impetus in the development of FPV drones occurred during military conflicts, in particular, in Syria and Ukraine. Their effectiveness in providing pinpoint strikes and reconnaissance by unmanned systems has attracted great interest from militaries around the world. The use of FPV drones during the war in Ukraine proved their ability to change the course of hostilities and reduce risk for pilots.

The development of FPV drones can be conditionally divided into several stages:

  • Early model aircraft: the first attempts to use cameras on drones for competition and racing.

  • Professional Development: Improvements in cameras, transmitters and control systems have made drones more accurate.

  • Military phase: adaptation of FPV drones for military purposes, such as reconnaissance, fire adjustment and pinpoint attacks.

This technology has progressed rapidly, and today FPV drones are used both on the battlefield and in various civilian applications.

How they work and where they are used

Phrases like “the armed forces need drones,” “drone wars,” “a million drones in 2024” are becoming part of everyday news. But what is an FPV drone, how does it work and what are its options? What aspects should be taken into account when choosing or independently assembling kamikaze drones? Is it easy to master the skills of piloting such drones? You will find the answers to these questions here.

What is a kamikaze FPV drone?

FPV (First Person View) is any drone equipped with a camera that broadcasts real-time images to the device’s screen, control panel or special pilot’s glasses. This category includes a variety of models, from commercial drones for agriculture to large drones with long range.

However, in the context of kamikaze drones, we most often refer to compact, inexpensive drones that are equipped with explosive charges and are used for one-off missions. Such drones effectively affect both manpower and equipment.

How kamikaze FPV drones are used

Kamikaze FPV drones allow you to hit a target at a distance of up to 8 km from the operator (this value may change depending on the conditions and characteristics of the antennas). The operator stays safe by using the goggles to control the drone with high precision. An experienced pilot is able to direct the drone so that it flies even through narrow openings, such as windows or hatches of enemy equipment.

An interesting detail: often videos of kamikaze drones are cut off even before the moment of explosion. This can occur due to signal loss, especially if the target is close to the ground. Therefore, repeater drones are additionally used, which allow to continue the transmission of the signal and record the moment of defeat.

Bottom line: FPV kamikaze drones are an effective, affordable precision strike tool that significantly reduces operator risk.

You can read more about all types of drones in our special section “Drones”.

What does a kamikaze drone consist of?

The drone consists of:

  • the frame on which everything is attached. Can be printed on a 3D printer, aluminum, carbon or fiberglass;

  • motors;

  • propellers;

  • cameras;

  • video signal transmitter;

  • flight control board that receives signals from the remote control;

  • batteries;

  • power controller;

  • initiation fee, i.e. detonation (in some cases you can do without it).

To control the drone, the pilot needs FPV goggles, which usually operate at 5.8 GHz, and a remote control. In addition, the following equipment may be required: an antenna on the mast, a cable for connecting the antenna to the remote control, a scanner for searching frequencies and a commander’s screen that displays the image from the pilot’s glasses.

How to choose a kamikaze drone

Pay attention to the characteristics of the models, namely:

Frame Size – Determines the drone’s ability to lift more weight, including battery and explosives.

The frame material affects the total weight of the drone, which, in turn, affects the flight range (a lighter drone can fly further).

Engines — the speed of flight and the ability to carry weight depend on their power.

The control board is an important signal type (digital or analog, more often FPV uses analog), as well as the operating protocol.

Camera — its quality determines the clarity and detail of the image.

Battery — affects flight range and the ability to lift additional cargo.

If we take an “average” kamikaze drone, it will look like this:

  • diameter 7 inches;

  • cargo weighing up to 1.5 kg;

  • flies at a distance of up to 8 kg;

  • analog communication on the crossfire or ERLS management protocol;

  • hits infantry, dugouts, BC warehouses, firing points and equipment.

Is it easy to start flying a drone?

FPV drones are manually operated and learning how to fly them is possible even without prior experience, but it takes time and effort. With intensive training, you can master basic skills in about two weeks.

The beginning of training includes a theoretical part: you need to understand the structure of the drone, take into account the peculiarities of control in different weather conditions and on various terrains. Hands-on sessions begin with practicing basic maneuvers, such as diving and precision shooting, first on a simulator, then on a training drone, and later on a combat model with cargo.

In addition, it is important to learn to work with additional equipment, learn the basics of electronic warfare (EW) and interaction with cargo. Teamwork is also important – for example, someone in the team must constantly monitor the position of the antenna to ensure stable communication with the drone during its maneuvers.

Training operators takes time, but this direction is progressive – FPV kamikaze drones play an important role in warfare, and their use is currently increasing.

Types of drones

Among drones, there are a large number of models that differ in design, purpose and capabilities. Drones can be classified into several main types:

  • Quadcopters are the most popular type of drone used for commercial, military and consumer purposes. They are equipped with four rotors that provide stable flight and ease of control. Most often, they are used for aerial photography, reconnaissance, delivery and other tasks.

  • Tricopters have three engines, which makes them more maneuverable, but less stable compared to quadcopters. They can be effective in conditions where high maneuverability is required, particularly in urban conditions or for specific tasks.

  • Multi-engine drones are drones with multiple engines that can be equipped with 6-8 rotors. They are capable of lifting heavier loads, making them useful for military operations where equipment needs to be delivered or reconnaissance conducted over longer distances.

  • Aircraft-type drones – These drones have a design similar to airplanes and are usually used for long flights over long distances. They are able to fly at high altitudes and cover large areas. Often used for reconnaissance or strategic tasks.

  • Kamikaze drones are disposable drones that have explosives on board and are used to self-destruct after reaching the target. They are effectively used to destroy infantry, equipment and other objects of the enemy.

  • FPV drones are drones with a first-person view. Pilots can see the flight in real time through goggles or a screen. This is very important for accurate targeting, especially during combat missions.

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