Ukrainian FPV drones "Wasp" could have become a key element of the SSU operation "Spider Web"

Ukrainian FPV drones "Wasp" could have become a key element of the SSU operation "Spider Web"

The FPV drones used by the Security Service of Ukraine in the historic operation "Spider Web" on enemy territory are likely domestic "Wasp" drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles are produced by the company First Contact.

The UAVs were identified by experts from the military portal Defence Express. In the footage of the operation preparation on Russian territory, the drones are clearly visible, and experts noted the distinctive thick and massive "closed" frame housing all electronics and wiring. This design is characteristic of the "Wasp" FPV drones.

"The vast majority of other drone manufacturers use upper mounting for all cables and create a skeletal frame instead of a ’closed solution’," the publication authors explained.

They noted that a "closed" sturdy frame is more reliable considering weather conditions and tested by long trips in trucks on Russian roads.

More detailed photos revealed that the drone’s skids are not only a launch means but also cumulative warheads. Experts also believe that the final FPV preparation for use had to be conducted on Russian territory.

On the First Contact website, it is stated that "Wasp" drones can carry up to 3.3 kg of payload, accelerate up to 42 m/s (up to 150 km/h), and stay airborne for up to 15 minutes. The combat radius is up to 8 km.

The "Wasp" UAV was assigned the code NCAGE A3Q1J in the NATO codification system in 2023.

It is recalled that Ukrainian drones attacked enemy aircraft Tu-95MS, Tu-160, and Tu-22M3 at Russian airbases "Olenya" (Murmansk region), "Belaya" (Irkutsk region), "Ivanovo" (Ivanovo region), and "Dyagilevo" (Ryazan region) on June 1.

The Security Service of Ukraine assessed the damage inflicted on the enemy at $7 billion and 34% of all Russian cruise missile carriers.