A curious new Russian device has been spotted: an FPV drone carrying a trail camera and mounted on a bamboo frame. The trail cam drone resembles a cheap, efficient spy that U.S. forces used to dream of in the 1960s. This technology was part of the Igloo White program, which dropped unattended ground sensors under enemy lines to detect vehicle movements and pinpoint locations for airstrikes.
However, unlike the expensive and outdated Igloo White system, the trail cam drone uses commercial components and cellphone networks to transmit data. Modern trail cameras have become advanced, with motion sensors, digital cameras, and WiFi capabilities, allowing them to send data over the phone network. This technology is now being used in various military applications, including monitoring vehicle traffic.
The trail cam drone can be used off the shelf, with some models reaching 20-60 meters in range, and has a low cost of operation. Its battery life may only last a few hours, but the sensor itself can operate for weeks. This technology can also be used defensively or to call down attacks on logistics vehicles.
The use of trail cams in modern warfare is an example of how emerging technologies are being combined with existing ones to produce impressive results. As Ukraine continues to develop and utilize such technology, it may revolutionize their military capabilities.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidhambling/2025/01/21/russian-trailcam-drone-is-a-new-type-of-stealthy-spy