Russian Drone Maker Claims to Have Built a DJI Mavic “Killer”

A Russian company based in Ekaterinburg claims to have developed a lightweight drone called the “Stalker” that is supposedly resistant to electronic warfare (EW). The company plans to test the drone in Ukraine before launching it into mass production.

Previous Claims of DJI “Killers” Failed to Materialize

This is not the first time a Russian company has claimed to have created a DJI Mavic replacement. Several major Russian defense companies made similar claims in 2022-2023 but were unsuccessful in their efforts. Russian soldiers, bloggers, and volunteers say there is currently no viable replacement for the DJI Mavic, reports Samual Bennett, who is a frequently cited research analyst and expert on Russian military technology, particularly in the areas of drones, AI, and robotics.

Drone Features Foldable Design and Advanced Camera

Images of the Stalker drone reveal a robust, angular body with a gray and black color scheme. It has four propellers attached to foldable arms, possibly made from carbon fiber or a similar lightweight material. The central body has a sleek design with a camera and gimbal mounted underneath for stabilization.

The drone’s compact, foldable design makes it easy to carry and store when not in use. The sturdy landing gear suggests it is built for stable landings. The prominent camera and gimbal indicate a focus on aerial photography or videography.

Designed for High Performance and Portability

The Stalker drone appears to be designed for high performance, with an emphasis on portability, durability, and advanced camera capabilities. Its foldable arms and compact design suggest it is targeted at users who need a versatile and easy-to-transport drone, possibly for professional or enthusiast-level aerial photography and videography.

DroneXL’s Take

While the Stalker drone’s claimed resistance to electronic warfare is intriguing, it remains to be seen whether it can truly compete with the DJI Mavic series. DJI has established itself as the market leader in consumer and professional drones, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality, reliable products.

The development of the Stalker drone highlights the ongoing competition in the drone industry and the desire for countries to reduce their reliance on foreign-made technology. However, creating a drone that can match or surpass the capabilities of the DJI Mavic is a significant challenge, as evidenced by the previous failed attempts by Russian companies.

As the drone industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if the Stalker drone can live up to its claims and provide a viable alternative to the DJI Mavic. Regardless of the outcome, the development of new drones pushes the boundaries of what is possible and drives innovation in the field.

Photos courtesy of Samual Bennett / X