Researchers from the St. Petersburg Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences have unveiled a specialized unmanned aerial vehicle designed to relay communications when cellular or satellite networks are not available. This breakthrough aims to keep remote operations connected in challenging landscapes where standard networks fail, including the sparsely populated regions of Russia’s north and east.
The new drone serves as a mobile airborne link that can operate where ground-based repeaters struggle due to terrain like hills, forests, and other obstructions that block radio signals. In such settings, the aerial relay can maintain line-of-sight communication and extend coverage for rescue and search missions, as well as routine communications in hard-to-reach zones.
According to Anton Savelyev, head of the laboratory of autonomous robotic systems at the St. Petersburg FRC RAS, the solution fills a gap left by terrestrial repeaters. He notes that when terrain disrupts signal propagation, the UAV can send data through the air to bridge the gap and sustain connectivity for responders and operators.
The drone can stay aloft for up to 30 minutes, with takeoff and landing time accounting for an additional 10 minutes, which surpasses similar devices in the market. This extended airborne window enables longer observation and communication windows without frequent returns to base.
Developers at the St. Petersburg FRC RAS achieved this by refining and simplifying the drone’s design, resulting in a lighter and more efficient platform capable of carrying a payload of 1.5 to 2 kilograms. This payload range aligns with the mass of a compact signal repeater and its mounting system, ensuring practical on-site deployment in field conditions.
In addition to hardware improvements, scientists have introduced a more ergonomic control system. The setup includes a dedicated helmet that transmits camera feed and a one-handed joystick, enabling operators to manage flight and relay tasks with greater ease and precision.
Earlier, LETI researchers demonstrated the creation of an organic flexible display element for advanced screens, reflecting ongoing innovation in related Russian technology sectors.