Ukrainian developers will create a secret long-range drone based on the A-22 aircraft

Former head of the SEAL Team 6 unit and journalist Chuck Pfarer published a diagram showing the transformation of the Aeroprakt light civilian aircraft by the Ukrainian military A-22 “Foxbat” on long range unmanned combat aircraft (UCAV).

It is noted that such a transformation highlights a new trend in asymmetric warfare, where civilian technologies are modified for military purposes, which allows for the creation of unique and unusual attack opportunities.

The first uses of the modified A-22 "Foxbat" took place on April 4, 2024, when these drones struck strategic targets in the Republic of Tatarstan, more than 1,200 km from the Ukrainian border, such UCAVs, modified by Ukrainian forces, hit targets, including factories with production of Shahed-136 drones and oil refineries.

It is reported that Aeroprakt A-22 «Foxbat» was originally designed as a two-seater ultralight aircraft for amateur aviation, however, after numerous modifications, it became a platform for unmanned strike missions.The aircraft underwent major changes, including the removal of unnecessary components to reduce weight and increased flight range, which allowed it to deliver ammunition over significant distances, while increased payload and the ability to carry up to 90 kg of explosives make it effective for  strategic strikes on important objects in the enemy's rear.

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To ensure the accuracy of strikes at long distances, advanced navigation and control systems were implemented, including GPS and inertial systems for targeting, as well as communications for real-time flight control. These adaptations allowed the aircraft to perform precision missions in conditions of electronic warfare and a reduced radar profile.

It is worth noting that the Aeroprakt A-22 “Foxbat” modification on the UCAV allows the Ukrainian military to carry out long-range strikes on critically important objects, such as infrastructure and production facilities, which seriously affects the enemy's ability to conduct combat operations.

Photo: armyrecognition. com/

In this way, the attack on a drone production plant and oil refinery highlights a new tactic that allows you to attack deep into the enemy's rear and at the same time inflict psychological pressure that can serve as an example for other countries, who are looking for ways to use civilian technologies for warfare.

The aircraft's simplified design and low cost enable it to be quickly adapted and highly effective at minimal cost.

This case demonstrates how  civilian technologies can become the basis for new military strategies capable of changing the course of conflicts and providing a significant advantage for armies possessing such technologies.