Russia’s state-owned defense enterprise, Rosel, which operates under the Rostec State Corporation, has initiated testing of a new Identification-Friend-or-Foe (IFF) system designed for integration with drones. This state-of-the-art IFF system is lightweight, weighing in at under 90 grams (3.1 ounces), and boasts low power consumption. It is equipped with a radar identifier that is directly installed on drones, allowing for real-time communication with ground stations through Russia’s state identification system. This technology aims to distinguish between friendly drones and those considered hostile or unrecognized.
The capabilities of the IFF system are notable; it can identify unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) at altitudes reaching up to 5 kilometers (approximately 3 miles), and it has an operational range of up to 100 kilometers (62 miles). However, it remains uncertain whether the system possesses resilience against electronic warfare tactics, which have become increasingly common on the battlefield, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict involving Ukraine.
Rosel has reported that the identifier system successfully underwent tests verifying its electromagnetic compatibility with various drones. Plans are now in motion to integrate the IFF technology into additional unmanned aerial systems, with flight testing scheduled for the upcoming summer. The Geodesy-401 quadcopter, which serves purposes like urban aerial photography and quarry mapping, was highlighted as one of the prototypes used during the system’s integration tests, indicating its multifunctional capabilities beyond military use.
As part of the military’s strategic developments, production of the initial batch of the IFF system is expected to commence within the current year. Additionally, in a move that highlights the competitive landscape of drone identification technologies in Russia, RPC Pulsar, another Russian firm, announced in December 2023 the development of a miniature IFF system. This new system has similar identification capabilities, able to recognize drones at the same altitude and distance as Rosel’s new identifier.
These advancements come amid Russia’s increasing reliance on drone operations in its military engagements, particularly as it seeks to enhance coordination and operational effectiveness in its drone warfare against Ukraine. The implementation of these identification systems could be pivotal in streamlining aerial operations and improving situational awareness on the battlefield.
