Deputy CEO of the Kronstadt Group military manufacturer said that company created a flying model of the Frigate multipurpose drone, which combines characteristics of both a helicopter and airplane.

Russia’s Kronstadt Group military manufacturer created a flying model of the Frigate multipurpose drone, which combines characteristics of both a helicopter and airplane, Deputy CEO of the company Vladimir Voronov told Sputnik on Wednesday.

"Kronstadt created a drone that can fly both as a plane and as a helicopter. Owing to this feature, its flying range is increased by three times comparing to a helicopter drone," Voronov said.

He pointed out that the drone would be able to take off as a helicopter and then to fly like a plane, allowing it to spend less fuel.

"A vertical take-off aircraft is the Holy Grail of modern aviation. AgustaWestland and Lockheed Martin, as well as other leaders of the aviation industry, are working on that," Voronov added.

According to the deputy CEO, a two-tonne Frigate drone will be constructed in 2020, while a seven-tonne version will be created by 2023.

Voronov pointed out that the seven-tonne version might be regarded as an unmanned combat aerial vehicle, adding that it would not need a special airfield in order to take off.

Kronstadt Group is also working on the Orion reconnaissance drone, which will be offered for export.