The Israeli Ministry of Defense turned to defense companies to find a solution against drones using fiber optics

Instead of being controlled remotely via radio or following a predetermined flight mission, these drones are connected to an operator by a long, thin wire. It transmits control commands to the drone, and the image from the drone’s camera is sent back to the operator. The use of fiber optics makes it impossible to intercept drones by conventional means such as remote jamming and electronic warfare systems.

The Ukrainian army adopted this technology back in 2024 – to protect against the suppression systems deployed by the Russians to cover their forces from drone strikes.

The statement, published by the Department of Armaments and Technology Development (MAFAT), states that “the adversary’s use of fiber-controlled FPV drones has been prominent for some time – this type of control complicates detection capabilities and makes them immune to electronic warfare. The Ministry of Defense is looking for additional capabilities to counter this threat at all stages of its use.”

According to the technical specifications, the system must cope with a fiber-optic UAV flying at speeds of up to 70 km/h at an altitude of up to 100 meters. Systems are required both for maneuvering forces and for the protection of troop concentration areas or fixed infrastructure facilities.

The Ministry of Defense notes that “the publication is intended to expand the existing response and leverage innovative solutions from the private sector and academia that can complement operational capabilities. MAFAT consistently examines any technological footprint in search of technological solutions against changing threats.”