On April 26, 2025, the Russian state news agency TASS reported that production has started for the “Knyaz Vandal Novgorodsky” FPV drone, a new weapon controlled through a fiber-optic cable. This innovation marks a significant step forward in the ongoing Russo-Ukrainian conflict, where electronic warfare plays a major role.
The drone, developed by the Ushkuynik Scientific and Production Center in Veliky Novgorod, is different from traditional drones that rely on radio signals for control. By using a wired connection, the Knyaz Vandal is resistant to jamming, providing a clear advantage in contested areas where electronic disruption is common.
Despite facing European and American sanctions, this development shows Russia’s capacity to innovate under pressure.
This drone also reflects the growing technological arms race between Russia and Ukraine, with Ukraine already emerging as a global leader in drone production. The Knyaz Vandal could change how wars are fought, but the bigger question is whether it signals the dawn of a new era where drones are virtually untouchable—and if Ukraine can maintain its competitive edge in this rapidly evolving field.
