A strike drone with fiber-optic control is now officially approved for use by Ukraine’s Armed Forces
The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has codified and approved for service in the Armed Forces of Ukraine the domestically produced unmanned aerial system "Baton Optic."
According to the Ministry, the Baton Optic quadcopter features a lightweight frame, high-performance motors, a high-capacity battery, and a fiber-optic control link. Its combat payload is sufficient to destroy tactical vehicles, enemy firing positions, and ammunition depots. The drone is capable of operating in challenging weather conditions.
Depending on the configuration, the drones can be equipped with dusk or thermal imaging cameras.
This is not the manufacturer’s first drone. In February 2025, the Ministry of Defense announced the codification and approval for use of another drone — the "Baton". That version also features a lightweight frame, powerful motors, and a high-capacity battery, but does not include a fiber-optic control system. It is intended for reconnaissance and strike missions, particularly against tactical vehicles and enemy positions.
The company continues to expand its line of unmanned aerial systems, aimed at strengthening the combat capabilities of Ukraine’s Armed Forces.
The official manufacturer of the Baton drones has not been disclosed. However, the name “Baton” or “BATON” has appeared previously among Ukrainian UAVs. For instance, the company “YeDron” is known for its FPV drones “Baton 7” and “Baton 8.” In early 2024, the company’s director, Viktor Yevpak, shared footage of a Baton 8 combat mission on his Instagram account.
