Paris, France – In a move to bolster Kyiv’s long-range offensive capabilities, media reports indicate that the French company EOS Technologie has delivered the first batch of its advanced Rodeur drones to the Ukrainian military. These drones are distinguished by their ability to penetrate deep defensive lines and carry out complex missions behind enemy lines.
Deployment and operational flexibility
Jean-Marc Zollian, the head of the manufacturing company, explained that the drone is designed to operate in various weather conditions and is characterized by its ease of transport, as a small crew (2-3 people) can quickly deploy it using a portable catapult, while its landing relies on a parachute system.
Context of military competition: The failure of German aircraft
The arrival of the French drones comes at a time when reports indicate technical setbacks encountered by other European drones in Ukraine.
At the beginning of January, Kyiv halted the purchase of German HX-2 drones after three-quarters of them failed to take off due to mechanical malfunctions, putting the French Rodeur drones to the ultimate test in the field.
Russian response: “Lack of combat testing”
For his part, Igor Potapov, the developer of Russian electronic warfare systems, questioned the effectiveness of European drones, claiming that they do not undergo actual combat testing before being supplied, which makes it possible to counter them with Russian defense systems.
