Ukrainian team 1ms has unveiled a rapid-deploy solution for continuous drone communications on the frontline.
The system, called Smart Mast, is a mobile telescopic mast that acts as a signal relay, boosting connections for reconnaissance and first-person view (FPV) drones in combat zones.
Unlike older systems that take more than 40 minutes to set up, Smart Mast reportedly deploys in just one or two minutes, thanks to its electric drive, telescopic guides, and collapsible legs.
A tilt-and-swivel mechanism allows operators to point antennas directly at drones to maintain a strong connection and prevent the signal from fizzling out.
For future units, 1ms is planning to integrate an automatic tracking feature, allowing the antenna to adjust its direction dynamically.
“These masts are used for a wide range of tasks. They can lift signal repeaters to transmit data between the operator and the drone or raise antennas to control FPV drones or interceptors,” said Volodymyr, part of Smart Mast’s developing team, as quoted by Ukrainska Pravda.
Mobile Communication System
The Smart Mast comes in two operational versions: a 4-meter (13-feet) model weighing 13 kilograms (29 pounds) and a 6-meter (20-feet) version at 19 kilograms (42 pounds). A 12-meter (39-feet) variant that weighs 24 kilograms (53 pounds) is currently in the works.
Designed for portability, the masts can be carried by a single soldier and deployed without the need for extra manpower.
The system has already completed field tests, with refinements made based on feedback from frontline troops.
Built entirely from Ukrainian components, the Smart Mast is set for mass production later this year. Each unit will cost around 160,000 Ukrainian hryvnia ($3,800).
Initial production will be limited to 20 units per month, but 1ms plans to increase capacity to about 50 units monthly.
