Deploying a fiber optic tethered UAV system requires more than selecting a suitable cable. The fiber must be pre-integrated into a controlled deployment format that ensures consistent payout, preserves optical performance, and minimizes mechanical stress on the airframe.
Fiber optic canisters provide a fully integrated solution by combining the fiber, connectors, and payout geometry into a single operational unit. This article outlines the architecture of canister-based deployment systems, associated signal modules, and key specifications for configurations ranging from 5 km to 50 km.
1. Canister Function in Tethered UAV Systems
In a tethered UAV setup, the canister is installed on the ground station and serves as the controlled fiber deployment mechanism. During flight, the fiber is released progressively, maintaining stable tension and avoiding mechanical stress.
A properly engineered canister ensures:
- Controlled payout to prevent microbending losses
- Integrated bending tube to maintain minimum bend radius
- Pre-installed connectors for immediate system integration
- Mechanical robustness for repeated field deployment
Unlike standard spools, canisters are specifically designed to preserve optical integrity throughout the entire deployment cycle.
2. Fiber Specifications (0.27 mm G657A2)
Canister systems use ultra-thin optical fiber optimized for dynamic deployment conditions. This is not conventional telecom cable, but a high-flexibility fiber designed for movement, vibration, and tension.
Key parameters:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Fiber Diameter | 0.27 mm ± 0.02 |
| Fiber Type | G657A2 |
| Fiber Weight | 65 g/km |
| Pulling Strength | ≥65 N |
| Connector | FC (SC / LC / ST optional) |
Optical performance:
| Wavelength | Attenuation |
|---|---|
| 1310 nm | ≤ 0.35 dB/km |
| 1550 nm | ≤ 0.25 dB/km |
The G657A2 fiber standard enables tight bend radii without significant signal degradation, making it suitable for continuous deployment scenarios where traditional G652D fibers would introduce losses.
3. Signal Module Architecture
The fiber link between UAV and ground station is completed by a matched pair of optical modules:
- Sky Module (TX) — airborne unit
- Ground Module (RX) — ground station unit
Sky Module (TX)
Mounted on the UAV, this module converts video and control signals into optical transmission.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Input Power | 5 V |
| Interfaces | UART / Video (1.25 mm 6P) |
| Video | PAL / NTSC |
| Control | CRSF, SBUS |
| Data Rate | 155 Mbps |
| Wavelength | 1310 / 1550 nm |
| Weight | 20 g |
Ground Module (RX)
Installed at the ground station, it converts the optical signal back into standard outputs.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power | 4S |
| Video Output | BNC / RCA |
| Protocols | CRSF, SBUS |
| Wavelength | 1550 / 1310 nm |
| Weight | 60 g |
Both modules support multiple transmission ranges, allowing optimization of the optical power budget depending on the selected canister length.
4. Canister Configurations
Canisters are available in multiple lengths, with size and weight scaling according to fiber capacity.
5. Configuration Selection
Selecting the appropriate system depends on mission requirements and UAV payload capacity.
- 5 km: compact systems for short-range surveillance and perimeter control
- 10–20 km: extended ISR operations with balanced size and performance
- 30-50 km: long-range and strategic missions
For longer distances, operation at 1550 nm is preferred due to lower attenuation, improving signal stability over extended fiber lengths.
In hybrid deployment scenarios, canisters can be combined with DuraTAC® armored fiber for ground segments where additional mechanical protection is required.
6. System Integration
Each canister is delivered as a ready-to-deploy unit with all required integration components:
- Bending tube (fiber exit control)
- Integrated Ground Module
- RCA and BNC video cables
- Flight controller interface cable
- BNC adapter
This approach minimizes setup time and reduces the risk of field-related connector damage.
Conclusion
Fiber optic canister systems represent a fully engineered solution for tethered UAV deployment. By integrating ultra-thin G657A2 fiber, pre-installed connectors, and matched signal modules, they provide a reliable and field-ready architecture from UAV to ground station.
Tactical Fiber Systems offers a complete range of canister configurations from 5 km to 50 km, available for deployment across European operations. For technical guidance or configuration selection, contact our team.