Ukraine is set to receive its first dedicated aerial drone for evacuating injured soldiers, the “StarGate,” this week for frontline conditions assessment. The drone aims to quickly transport wounded individuals to safe zones for medical treatment in the midst of enemy fire in combat zones. If proven reliable in combat, this drone will revolutionize traditional battlefield evacuation methods.
According to reports from the Associated Press, the development of this drone stems from the urgent need on the front lines of trenches. In some segments of the battlefield, the “kill zone” covered by enemy drones and artillery can extend up to 10-15 kilometers or even further. While Ukrainian forces currently use ground vehicles to transport injured personnel and supplies, their operations are often impeded by factors like mud, craters, damaged roads, terrain, or landmines. Delays in treating severely wounded individuals could potentially put their lives at risk.
To address this critical challenge, Commander Flint of the 475th Separate Assault Regiment (Codename: Code 9.2) contacted the founder of the Ukrainian defense technology company, SkyFall, last year to propose the development of equipment capable of rapidly evacuating injured soldiers from high-risk areas. In response, SkyFall designed the “StarGate,” an unmanned aerial vehicle specifically for evacuating frontline casualties.
According to the company, the drone has a one-way range of 15 kilometers, allowing it to reach deep into the “kill zone.” It can carry a maximum payload of 150 kg (330 lbs), enough to transport a wounded soldier wearing body armor and carrying combat gear. The drone requires approximately 10 minutes for takeoff preparations, can cruise at a speed of 65 km/h, with a maximum speed of 105 km/h.
Commander KVN of Code 9.2 acknowledged, “If the StarGate can traverse 10 kilometers in a matter of minutes, it will bring about a groundbreaking change on the front lines.” However, he also cautioned that this is a new model, and it is currently challenging to fully evaluate its pros and cons. The unit would need at least a month of practical operational experience to provide specific statistical conclusions on its success rate.
The “StarGate” drone has commenced frontline assessments this week, showcasing various designs developed to address the harsh environmental conditions and threats on the battlefield:
– **Airborne Protection**: During the demonstration, the drone successfully intercepted a simulated first-person view (FPV) attack drone approaching the site, by deploying a capturing net to steer it off course.
– **Anti-Jamming Navigation**: The “StarGate” utilizes Starlink and the company’s proprietary L-Link dual communication channels, coupled with an AI-based system to help maintain control. It is claimed to be able to sustain control when GPS signals are blocked or deceived, and autonomously plan a return route to a safe area when communication is completely disrupted.
– **Environmental Adaptability**: The drone is said to have the capability to withstand rain and snow, and is equipped with a thermal imaging camera for nighttime missions. SkyFall showcased during the demonstration that the drone maintains flight capabilities even after one of its arms is damaged.
SkyFall estimates that the cost of each system varies depending on specific configurations, with a minimum of $50,000 per set. They plan to increase the monthly production volume of this type of drone to a maximum of 1,000 units by the end of 2026. The specific frontline assessment results of the unit have not been publicly disclosed yet; SkyFall confirmed that the unit is evaluating the “StarGate” but refrained from disclosing the test results.
As the developing company, SkyFall, was founded in Ukraine after the full-scale Russian invasion in 2022. It has since evolved into a prominent Ukrainian drone manufacturer. The company’s heavy-duty drone, the “Vampire,” is referred to as “Baba Yaga” by the Russian military, named after the Slavic folklore witch. The Ukrainian military is currently utilizing it for various battlefield tasks.
Furthermore, the company produces the “Shrike” first-person view (FPV) drone, as well as developing the P1-SUN aerial interceptor.