Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, have become indispensable assets in modern military operations. Since the onset of the full-scale invasion, the Ukrainian military has effectively utilized drones, catching adversaries off guard. Ukrainian operators have successfully targeted russian tanks and personnel from several kilometers away. However, before striking, it’s crucial to identify targets accurately. This is where reconnaissance UAVs come into play, many of which Ukraine began producing before 2022. One notable example is the Ukrainian Leleka drone, whose “iron eyes” can conduct reconnaissance deep within enemy lines, both day and night.
The Birth of the Leleka Drone
The Leleka drone was developed by the Ukrainian company DeViRo. Its initial tests commenced in 2017, and by the following year, the Leleka was showcased during Ukraine’s Independence Day military parade. In 2021, the UAV was officially adopted into service by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
From its inception, the Ukrainian Leleka drone was designed for versatility. It is suitable for aerial reconnaissance, patrolling, mapping terrains, and obtaining precise geographical coordinates in real-time.
Specifications and Features of the Leleka
Key Parameters:
- Dimensions: Length – 1.135 meters; wingspan – 1.98 meters;
- Body and Weight: Constructed from composite materials (fiberglass and carbon fiber), the drone is both lightweight and durable, weighing between 4.5 to 5.5 kilograms. This design enables the Ukrainian Leleka drone to reach altitudes up to 1,500 meters;
- Speed: Maximum speed – 120 km/h; cruising speed – 60–70 km/h;
- Range and Flight Duration: Flight range – up to 100 kilometers (with a guaranteed 50 kilometers). It can remain airborne for 2 to 4 hours, facilitating extended patrols.
Additionally, the Leleka drone boasts robust protection against electronic warfare (EW) systems, allowing it to operate even in hostile territories. DeViRo’s system detects and blocks attempts to interfere with GPS/Glonass navigation. Moreover, Leleka’s video transmission is encrypted, and its signal lacks telemetry or GPS data, preventing interception. Even if communication is lost, the drone can autonomously return to a designated landing point.
These features ensure Leleka’s stable operation and data transmission for artillery or drone adjustments, even if adversaries attempt to disrupt its mission.
Insights from the Azov Brigade on the Leleka Drone
A member of the Azov Brigade codenamed «Voron» actively employs the drone in combat scenarios and shared his experiences:
In recent times, the manufacturer has made significant improvements to both the hardware and software components of the system. There’s also a gradual transition to new frequencies that are more resistant to enemy EW measures.
Among the advantages, «Voron» highlights the system’s straightforward design, which significantly reduces deployment time in combat situations.
Another benefit is the dual-mode operation—day and night. The Leleka drone can function with both day and night cameras, which are easily interchangeable by simply replacing the camera module. Following the aforementioned hardware enhancements, the UAV’s cameras have shown marked improvement.
Additionally, the prompt and complimentary maintenance service is a notable advantage. The developer maintains continuous collaboration with combat crews to enhance the system’s performance.
Notably, this collaboration led to the introduction of the Leleka LR in 2023, an upgraded version of the Leleka-100 drone with an extended operational range of up to 90 kilometers and enhanced EW resistance. This drone was developed by the Ukrainian-Czech company UAC, a subsidiary of DeViRo within the European Union, and most of its testing and applications have been conducted in Ukraine.
The Leleka drone also demonstrates resilience against wind, performing tasks in conditions where many other UAVs might falter.
However, a drawback is its performance in cold weather, snow, and heavy rain. This issue arises due to the lack of heating for the Pitot tube and inadequate sealing of the battery compartment. Addressing these concerns could significantly expand the operational weather range of the Ukrainian Leleka drone.
A Case Study: Azov’s Use of the Leleka-100 to Neutralize a russian Target
«Voron» recounted an incident where his team utilized the Leleka to destroy a BM-21 “Grad” multiple rocket launcher system:
The crew embarked on a night mission to scout and confirm the presence of enemy artillery and equipment for subsequent artillery targeting.
During the reconnaissance of forested areas, an enemy BM-21 “Grad” was spotted moving into a firing position to target Ukrainian forces.
As the Leleka drone flew over the “Grad,” the engine noise startled the russian crew, prompting them to abandon their position with a full ammunition load, without firing a single shot.
The team monitored the movement of this MRLS to determine its base location for future targeting.
Throughout the tracking, real-time footage from the UAV was transmitted to the brigade’s headquarters, allowing precise monitoring of the vehicle’s movements.
Subsequently, the team was informed of the launch of a Ukrainian FPV drone aimed at neutralizing the MRLS. During one of the enemy vehicle’s maneuvers, it was successfully struck by the FPV drone, resulting in the destruction of the MRLS along with its ammunition load, leaving only three wheels in the field.
The Leleka drone has proven effective in counter-battery operations, tracking enemy artillery to facilitate reconnaissance and adjust Ukrainian artillery fire for neutralizing enemy guns. For instance, in March 2022, the Leleka drone was instrumental in the destruction of a Russian Buk surface-to-air missile system. It has also assisted Ukrainian artillery units in guiding precision strikes with advanced munitions such as the American 155mm M982 Excalibur. These operations highlight the drone’s battlefield value not just as a surveillance tool, but as a critical asset in modern precision warfare.
The Leleka 100 drone has firmly established itself as a key component of Ukraine’s reconnaissance capability. With its resistance to electronic warfare, real-time target acquisition, and day-and-night operability, this UAV has become the “eagle eye” of the Ukrainian Armed Forces—finding, fixing, and helping eliminate enemy threats with remarkable accuracy. The skies it flies are hostile, but the mission is clear: provide the vision that leads to successful missions.
