The Australian company SYPAQ has introduced its Corvo cardboard drones in Ukraine. These low-cost drones are primarily designed for light transport but can also perform reconnaissance missions based on feedback from Ukrainian soldiers. The drones, developed through a partnership with the Australian Defence Force, are made entirely of cardboard and were initially created for delivering light equipment to isolated soldiers during operations. SYPAQ later added intelligence and surveillance capabilities to the drones. The Corvo drones have a range of 120 kilometers and offer simple production, low logistical footprint, easy construction, and autonomous flight capabilities. They have multiple uses including reconnaissance and ultra-light transport, and are cost-effective. However, reusability is limited due to the stress on the cardboard structure, and the load capacity is limited.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| SYPAQ’s Corvo cardboard drones in use in Ukraine | Introduction of low-cost cardboard drones | Increased use of affordable cardboard drones | Cost-effectiveness, feedback from soldiers |
| Corvo drones delivered to Ukrainian Armed Forces | Integration of drones for transport | Enhanced drone capabilities for military operations | Improved logistics, military feedback |
| Corvo Precision Payload Delivery System (PPDS) developed | Development of cardboard drone technology | Advancements in drone technology using cardboard | Partnership with Australian Defence Force |
| Cardboard drone with reconnaissance capabilities developed | Addition of intelligence and surveillance | Improved reconnaissance missions with cardboard drones | Feedback from Ukrainian military |
| Simple production and low logistical footprint | Streamlined production and logistics | More efficient production and distribution of cardboard drones | Cost-effectiveness, ease of construction |
| Easy construction and autonomous flight capabilities | User-friendly drone construction | Simplified drone construction and autonomous flight | Ease of use, GPS technology |
| Multiple capabilities for reconnaissance and transport | Versatile applications for drones | Expanded uses of cardboard drones in various operations | Adaptability, potential modifications |
| Very low cost per unit | Affordable drone technology | Increased accessibility and affordability of drones | Cost-effectiveness, market demand |
| Choice of cardboard for stealth against radars | Stealth technology for drones | Improved stealth capabilities for cardboard drones | Strategic advantage, radar evasion |
| Declining reusability and limited load | Improved durability and payload capacity | Enhanced structural strength and payload capability | Technological advancements, user feedback |
| Limited use during storms | Improved weather resistance | Increased drone capabilities in adverse weather conditions | Weatherproofing technology, user feedback |