Russian forces have reportedly begun using FPV drones equipped with built-in microphones to locate Ukrainian drone operators and ground-based robotic systems.

According to the Telegram channel Voyennaya Khronika (Military Chronicle), citing Ukrainian sources, the technology uses sound as an additional source of intelligence. The microphones can pick up engine noise and other sounds that may indicate the presence of personnel or equipment, potentially revealing the positions of Ukrainian UAV crews and ground robotic units.

The channel noted that drone operators have previously used sound to detect military equipment beyond the camera’s field of view. However, the reported new approach involves deliberately using acoustic sensors to search for ground targets rather than relying on audio as a secondary source of information.

The authors believe acoustic reconnaissance could be particularly effective when FPV drones are positioned on the ground in standby mode. With their motors switched off, the aircraft produce almost no noise of their own, allowing operators to listen to nearby activity and identify sounds in the surrounding area.

Ukrainian sources claim the Russian system can detect human speech at distances of 20–30 meters. Noise from light vehicles can reportedly be picked up from 50–100 meters away, while heavy machinery may be detected at distances of up to 200 meters.