The standard version of the DARTS drone has long been used by dozens of Ukrainian defense units — from elite Special Operations Forces (SOF) and the Defense Intelligence Directorate (HUR) to regular UAV crews in mechanized brigades. That version carried a warhead of around 8 kilograms and had a flight range of up to 55 kilometers.
NV first learned of testing for a new version of the DARTS drone some time ago. The K-2 regiment, commanded by Hero of Ukraine Kyrylo Veres, joined the trials.
Soldiers refer to the upgraded drone as DARTS 2.0, though that is not its official name. The new version features two major improvements: a redesigned communications system and two engines instead of one, as seen in the standard variant. According to the developer, this configuration allows the warhead’s payload to be doubled — up to 14 kilograms. However, the crews currently testing the drone are experimenting with different types of explosives and do not always load the maximum weight.
Testing continues, and real-world performance data — including results under various conditions and in combat use — will be released later. The manufacturer also notes that the flight range has barely decreased, with the drone still capable of covering about 40 kilometers. The new communications system is expected to provide significantly better video quality and control, even in complex combat environments.
An NV journalist has already witnessed the first combat uses of DARTS 2.0, though this was not previously reported due to security concerns. On July 17, at the Brave1 DemoDay, the upgraded drone was presented to the public for the first time, with developers highlighting its new features and upgrades.
Affordability, ease of use, and readiness “out of the box” have made DARTS one of the most popular drones in its class. With a price tag of around $1,000 for the standard version, Ukrainian defense units have confirmed its role in destroying expensive Russian air defense systems, artillery, and other modern weaponry.
Previously, NV reported on how the drone systems battalion of the Azov Brigade adopted the DARTS drone on the Toretsk front line.