French drone manufacturer EOS Technologie has delivered several combat drones with a range of up to 500 kilometers to Ukraine.
According to information from France 24 television, the drone can stay in the air for up to 5 hours.
According to a report by France 24, the French company EOS Technologie developed the Rodeur drone, some models of which have been delivered to Ukraine. It is capable of traveling a distance of up to 500 km.
According to the company's president, Jean-Marc Zollian, this model can be used for reconnaissance and can also carry out strikes, similar to suicide drones. The report did not specify the exact number of drones delivered to Ukraine.
It was reported in early January that Kyiv had halted its purchases of HX-2 drones manufactured by the German company Helsing, following their failure during tests near the front lines. According to Bloomberg, three-quarters of the drones failed to take off due to a mechanical malfunction in their catapults.
According to Igor Potapov, a developer of Russian electronic warfare systems, none of the drones supplied by Europe to Ukrainian territory are subject to actual combat testing.
Based on information available from open sources, the following are the main technical specifications of the Rodeur drone produced by the French company EOS Technologie:
Type: Medium-range attack/reconnaissance drone.
Operating category: Operates in low atmosphere.
Manufacturer: EOS Technologie, a French company.
Performance specifications (according to developer data):
Operational range: Up to 500 kilometers . This is one of its most prominent features, enabling it to carry out missions deep behind front lines.
Flight time (ability to stay airborne): Up to 5 hours .
Maximum takeoff load (MTOW): approximately 25 kg .
The useful load: It can carry various loads up to 5 kg , including:
Reconnaissance and optical/thermal surveillance and fire correction equipment.
Warhead (for use as a "suicide" drone or loaded with missiles).
Launch method: A portable catapult is used , which makes deployment quick and does not require a runway.
Method of landing: by parachute.
Propulsion system: It is powered by an electric motor (with a propeller), making it relatively quiet compared to aircraft powered by internal combustion engines.
Operating level: Designed to operate in almost all weather conditions , day and night.
Navigation system: Operates using the Global Positioning System (GPS) and possibly backup navigation systems, and can be pre-programmed for the flight path.
Declared operational characteristics:
Multi-tasking: It can be used in reconnaissance, surveillance and exploration missions , or as a direct-impact weapon (point hits).
Stealth: Its simple design and relatively small size make it difficult to detect by radar or the naked eye.
Easy transport and deployment: The entire system (aircraft, launcher, ground control station) is portable and can be transported in a vehicle or quickly deployed by a crew of 2-3 people.
Ability to guide and update during flight: The mission or objective can be changed during flight via a secure data link.
