Quantum Systems has upgraded its Vector reconnaissance drones deployed in Ukraine, allowing operations in GNSS-denied environments. The Receptor AI sensor upgrade provides optical navigation, AI-supported object recognition, and identification without weight changes or range reduction, according to Quantum Systems. The upgrades are made without fundamental changes to the existing platform architecture, as explained by director of software engineering Daniel Kneifel.
The AI upgrade kit is based on a Jetson Orin Nvidia chip and includes the Raptor gimbaled sensor for object detection and tracking. It offers signal-free navigation and enhances the platform’s navigation capability in GNSS-denied conditions. The development and testing of the module are taking place at Quantum Systems’ development site in Ukraine.
Over the last two years, the Ukrainian government has procured over 400 Vector systems for operational deployment, funded by the German government. These systems have provided advanced aerial intelligence and situational awareness to Ukrainian forces. Vector drones have demonstrated exceptional performance in challenging conditions on the Ukrainian battlefield, supporting military intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations effectively.
The Vector drone system has an endurance of three hours, a top speed of 72 kilometers per hour, and can stream live video up to 35 kilometers away. Other features include low noise emission, a rugged structure, and quick deployment in three minutes.
