Beyond The Sprues

Modelling => Group and Themed Builds => The Tankbuster GB => Topic started by: Buzzbomb on November 20, 2025, 12:09:12 PM

Title: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on November 20, 2025, 12:09:12 PM
I have had a thought bubble.. now with the Mod to get an okey dokey to move forward.

Stay tuned. It might/will be big  ;D
Title: Re: Holding place pending Mod Approval
Post by: Kerick on November 20, 2025, 12:39:11 PM
I have had a thought bubble.. now with the Mod to get an okey dokey to move forward.

Stay tuned. It might/will be big  ;D

We expect nothing less! Looking forward to it!
Title: Re: Holding place pending Mod Approval
Post by: LemonJello on November 20, 2025, 10:57:39 PM
Approval sent. Now get to work! 

Title: Re: Holding place pending Mod Approval
Post by: Buzzbomb on November 21, 2025, 06:39:36 AM
Approval sent. Now get to work!

Right then

I have this scratchbuilt Russian Bereg Coastal gun system, that was built eons again,long before kits of the subject were available and the only starting place was the now venerable Dragon SCUD kit. It has been around the traps, including one move and several shows, so it is starting to show its age, wear and tear plus some missing bits.

(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/avrblcu6uehjnv2turlvk/DroneASSV_1.JPG?rlkey=1bhxflaa997ky5a6u28ldm48d&st=5324y9te&raw=1)

The plan is to redevelop this as a large mobile Drone Deployment vehicle, that can deploy a suite of drones including those used in Anti Armour operations. In Ukrainian service of course.
Lets see what happens, its a bit of a stretch for Tankbusters but on the periphery
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Kerick on November 21, 2025, 09:39:32 AM
Ukrainian drones are hitting tanks all the time. Sounds good to me.
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: apophenia on November 21, 2025, 10:48:36 AM
Ukrainian drones are hitting tanks all the time. Sounds good to me.

Yup. And those are little quadcopters with strap-on warheads. Imagine the size of anti-tank drones that this sucker could launch  :o
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Frank3k on November 21, 2025, 02:08:22 PM
Sounds like a good project! If there's anything below that you might want/need and you have access to a resin printer, I can send you the .stl files. The first three rows are parts for a drone launcher box:

(https://i.imgur.com/gibN1V9.jpg)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on November 25, 2025, 05:15:04 AM
Sounds like a good project! If there's anything below that you might want/need and you have access to a resin printer, I can send you the .stl files. The first three rows are parts for a drone launcher box:

Thanks Frank keep that in mind.
I am thinking though that it will be more about containers in modular racking or something like that.

Sat down at the bench to start work, but of course the first thing that had to be done was rejig the Spraybooth ventilation.. how does that happen, it was quite fine, but went from wall mount to routing down through the bench with the extraction fan in the cupboard which in turn gets it out of the way more. The only immovable bit was the hole through the wall to the outside.
Perhaps my head decided more bench space for half started projects was a better idea  ???
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/xhi5cozy3p6m7b7mocxiy/WshopMerge.jpg?rlkey=ekqffjnpfc2qbu3pgfzuh1kch&st=m17yfj8w&raw=1)

Then I removed stuff from the Bereg and planning has started to fill the empty spot with the Drone Modules, which may yet include the turret being totally revamped for purpose.
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/c5prj6obgyolfpnqg0dx6/DroneASSV_2.JPG?rlkey=ehja3qaha7aidmao2u3wj8qyk&st=rvv00zn5&raw=1)

That leaves me with a big gun.. for another project. To fill an empty spot on the newly found bench space. See how it all works  ;D




Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: finsrin on November 25, 2025, 08:18:22 AM
Really like this build concept.  :smiley:   Kind of thing I would like to do. 
What kit is it based on ?
1/35 or 1/48 ?
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on November 28, 2025, 05:55:58 PM
Really like this build concept.  :smiley:   Kind of thing I would like to do. 
What kit is it based on ?
1/35 or 1/48 ?

is the old Dragon 1/35 SCUD TEL

While nannying my 3D printer which is having a bit of a hissy fit at the moment, not liking the current filament by the looks of it, got some bench time

Did decide to go with the existing turret as the basis for the next portion of this
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/5smw9l4r6tsuxqajr8dha/DroneASSV_3.JPG?rlkey=27sut5urf5q9o1mrw1be049m2&st=xnargvbj&raw=1)

Hack a bit out, to sort of give the idea of the containerisation concept
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/uc29wejia90j8wrqjkna7/DroneASSV_4.JPG?rlkey=p7ftezsqwj9azgn0uzg202l3f&st=szgvh4cd&raw=1)

Some smaller drone, more the Anti Tank size stowage on the sides.
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/gruk0subzv9xl1x15mcac/DroneASSV_5.JPG?rlkey=z46dvbr5trzq24b4t1x0fej4g&st=q0r0hyyo&raw=1)

Concept building, the large retractable box for a larger drone and a smaller unit on a slide out "launch" tray. Two per compartment, stacked.
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/b45z2ttsvg7rr0adxt4fk/DroneASSV_7.JPG?rlkey=2fzuo1vatz7i1m2xdbq0yzhug&st=5b92rlry&raw=1)

The vertical launch bays would also have a suite of drones that can be deployed.
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Old Wombat on November 28, 2025, 08:00:03 PM
OK, that's looking cool!  8)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Dr. YoKai on November 28, 2025, 11:59:56 PM
Variable load put-I like it.
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Claymore on November 29, 2025, 01:39:35 AM
I like the way this is going.  Very cool!  8)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Kerick on November 29, 2025, 04:55:17 AM
Looking better each time. Carry on!
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on November 29, 2025, 05:01:11 AM
I dunno folks... much hand wringing overnight on this.

I am now looking at ditching the MAZ 8 wheel chassis and going for something a bit less.... overkill.

Hmmm TBA. Work in progress
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Old Wombat on November 29, 2025, 06:10:42 AM
Overkill is underrated!  ;)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: raafif on November 29, 2025, 06:33:42 AM
I dunno folks... much hand wringing overnight on this.

I am now looking at ditching the MAZ 8 wheel chassis and going for something a bit less.... overkill.


I'm sure a civvy carrier would be less conspicuous  - milk tanker maybe ?? ;)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Claymore on November 30, 2025, 05:02:16 PM
If the itch of doubt is there, better to scratch it now.  :icon_meditation:
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Jeffry Fontaine on November 30, 2025, 06:55:51 PM
I dunno folks... much hand wringing overnight on this.

I am now looking at ditching the MAZ 8 wheel chassis and going for something a bit less.... overkill.

Hmmm TBA. Work in progress

There are a couple of options for you to consider if you go with the "commerce option" such as the 20' and 40' ISO containers or a 1/32nd scale box-body van/reefer trailer from Revell or Monogram that can be found with or without the tractor truck to pull it.  Not sure if there is a trailer available for the ISO containers so you might have to make that or just place it on the ground. 

Link to the Revell reefer trailer kit at Amazon.Com (https://www.amazon.com/Revell-14541-Fruehauf-Reefer-Trailer/dp/B0CFMSWY4W)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Frank3k on December 01, 2025, 02:14:39 AM
I like the way this is looking - just reduce the complexity a bit. (the big drone launcher at the rear doesn't have to be retractable, for instance). The Ukrainians also have very fast drones that can be vertically stacked (anti-drone drones) Like this one:

(https://cuashub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Ukrainian-interceptor-drone-in-2025.jpg)

https://cuashub.com/en/content/ukraine-unveils-interceptor-drone-to-counter-russian-shahed-and-geran-attacks/
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Kerick on December 01, 2025, 02:52:13 AM
I was looking at the box you’re using and couldn’t stop imagining vertical launch hatches like a navy ship. Maybe not so armored looking. Just my $0.02 worth.
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on December 02, 2025, 05:34:23 AM
Right mulling over the chassis component completed.
Went down scale.. say on the back of a M548 Tracked Load Carrier, as the Ukrainians have those. Just did not work for me.. not beefy enough
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/k5fm0hz6itwutg0s3ekf1/DroneASSV_8.JPG?rlkey=pdexjk763p0uyouunionq0h74&st=nwrexdl6&raw=1)

Back on the MAZ chassis... Overkill does have its own level of satisfaction  :D Still tinkering with where the modules will go, but back on track. Or wheels.

(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/jizh9o4gz39063fm0rqrt/DroneASSV_9.JPG?rlkey=ln6dd030ak4jbq2hjn3lfrtjf&st=jtg1owe1&raw=1)

More work on the "container" type setup.
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/gxtz4csp0aiumh75dalh9/DroneASSV_10.JPG?rlkey=k50r0d5u60kajph7zpsd62v3s&st=jaqx4i0e&raw=1)


I like the way this is looking - just reduce the complexity a bit. (the big drone launcher at the rear doesn't have to be retractable, for instance). The Ukrainians also have very fast drones that can be vertically stacked (anti-drone drones) Like this one:

Going to use that drone type.. I am adding in more drone hangerage into the the other module, I was thinking for angled launch, but vertical for the win. Thanks  :smiley:
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on December 09, 2025, 01:26:05 PM
Some forward movement, getting it nearer to where it perhaps should be.

Couple of profile shots, with the layout I am going with now
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/cjzboisk0wzm0rzxpu2nj/DroneASSV_11.JPG?rlkey=k7hrlvdjybcjel4x97vrl5gh9&st=zw06e2y6&raw=1)
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/td2vol9a1shja6gxfrxkp/DroneASSV_12.JPG?rlkey=mf4g7y4mwqqow0cjarazhd234&st=sftmclud&raw=1)

The second module, has been enlarged, with some vertical launch bays and an extendable Sensor Mast.
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/a9hqgppj3se5gkntm31xx/DroneASSV_13.JPG?rlkey=bqhp7dpn3skgu3cd086n8mlq3&st=6d38622h&raw=1)
Drone in the bay, test fit. Still to fit the props, so the wingy things may have to get a trim
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/yb3021xyapgocu15sx1h5/DroneASSV_14.JPG?rlkey=vha1u5me4fjzsccfi4q3ombci&st=uzxtigii&raw=1)

Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: apophenia on December 10, 2025, 03:40:21 AM
This has really started shaping up into a formidable-looking beast!  :smiley:

Still, I love the image in Reply #21 (DroneASSV_9) where an orange glue bottle tip in the background looks like the start of a seriously large UAV  :o
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Old Wombat on December 10, 2025, 05:16:15 PM
 :smiley:
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Kerick on December 10, 2025, 10:27:43 PM
This is becoming a real beast! Awesome!
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Frank3k on December 11, 2025, 12:39:46 AM
The vertical launch bay looks great - I love the hatch details!
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Claymore on December 12, 2025, 05:28:19 PM
Seconded.  Great build detail and glad you decided to stick with the MAZ.  :smiley:
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on December 23, 2025, 05:43:55 PM
Been clearing out the shelf-o-doom over the last few days.. well some of them  :-[

But a bit of work on the Drone Base Vehicle

The visibile Drones
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/hav3uk2a2rfiumhwe35oz/DroneASSV_15.JPG?rlkey=h95ozp93cijturgo6s3o2f4hx&st=ap4uki8s&raw=1)

In the paint shop starting the Ukraine Digi Cam or a facsimile thereof.
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/fwz5ttyl3l8qfbzpmp7k0/DroneASSV_16.JPG?rlkey=92377bffopymu306n66nbjhyl&st=2tt26wze&raw=1)

The aim is to get it done in the next few days... Well that's the aim ???
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: raafif on December 24, 2025, 06:01:25 AM
Lookin' good :smiley:  I also want to see that glue bottle with the orange top made into a large drone ! C:-) ;)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: apophenia on December 24, 2025, 08:23:13 AM
Shaping up nicely, this imposing beast  :smiley:

... I also want to see that glue bottle with the orange top made into a large drone ! C:-) ;)

 ;D ;D
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on December 24, 2025, 02:14:21 PM
Have to get this off the bench.. I have seen something else shinier  ;D

Masking, masking.. .masking. Doing a digital cammo job, or representations there of.. it is not real flash and bit haphazard.
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/ipz8g4rmn6tie0b2uqjpw/DroneASSV_17.JPG?rlkey=4b7d1qrqo768td2zb9h3ibuv7&st=r7286qwh&raw=1)
So after all that, the final top coat then....
Before. masking still in place
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/mzfmc6j929u9jving3szj/DroneASSV_18.JPG?rlkey=73j3gvang8dujbrzt0p1ulue0&st=e2jpxjnc&raw=1)
After. masking all removed (I hope)
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/18mlxnrnxk1vnvlye9ffu/DroneASSV_19.JPG?rlkey=1wx5xow971mxiuhe24if45cp1&st=xkmwvy5t&raw=1)
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/14610nuj6vq1hyjlac0dv/DroneASSV_20.JPG?rlkey=4v9srhzd0s412mcdy4n2ymrix&st=7n1gt71f&raw=1)

Go back for some touch ups then get it all together for the final bit.
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Claymore on December 25, 2025, 07:53:20 AM
 :smiley:
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on January 06, 2026, 11:07:58 AM
As far as I am going to take it I think. Bit itchy for a new project.

Sort of on the periphery for TankBusters, however as pointed out.... Drones are flavour of the conflict for Ukraine

Ukraine Drone Mobile Integrated Launch System - DMILS (maybe  ???)

(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/5s8s3j1p811vlpdyhhck7/DroneASSV_21.JPG?rlkey=6ukw1wgpyxcbkhr5fmpqqkh9h&st=2q4lbozx&raw=1)
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/6x7u4gxnzr9blqbbobn72/DroneASSV_22.JPG?rlkey=hbkgow8nnn03bcfymv62edc73&st=5loto105&raw=1)
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/mvtu6l4ucwrvjvkn1xpg6/DroneASSV_23.JPG?rlkey=v5xpty5wkenwy74yvbvdnzrj3&st=4wa4nqvw&raw=1)
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/zb0natnbira5t54go2wis/DroneASSV_24.JPG?rlkey=vne70alh2qyjw84v5brpthczs&st=aj78lwf0&raw=1)
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/auxz98ea9237z1qwd6vf2/DroneASSV_25.JPG?rlkey=5oi9u6mtvnzqhv20h1rv1jqnp&st=08ebf4zt&raw=1)
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/orggqawy61vhagbhnx8n8/DroneASSV_26.JPG?rlkey=ng2ysu4avvblky6n06vpo2j91&st=vvg8uwp9&raw=1)

Thanks for the support during this. I have to confess that near the end I was losing interest a bit as it was so big.
Who knows the MAZ chassis may get another run at some stage. For a 3rd iteration of existence.  ;D
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Frank3k on January 06, 2026, 12:28:09 PM
That is a massive beast! It came out great, though - I love the ready to launch drones. I know what you mean about unwieldy projects!
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Dr. YoKai on January 06, 2026, 11:06:31 PM
Man, that came out wonderful. But why do I suddenly want to paint it an overall medium blue and print the word "SHADO" on both sides? ??? :P ;)
Think I'd go with Mobile Integrated Drone Launch System. (MIDLS)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Old Wombat on January 07, 2026, 12:34:34 AM
I never realised just how effective the rather basic Ukrainian digi scheme is a breaking up the outline of a vehicle until I saw this build - Well done on the scheme, BT!  8)

Drones are the flavour of the conflict but they do destroy everything, including tanks, so fit in perfectly here!  ;)
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Claymore on January 07, 2026, 07:52:37 AM
Oh, very nice.  I take it the space on the right side of the hull is for the optional NAAFI tea dispensing module?  ;)

As always, beautiful work and a great finish.  :smiley:
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: apophenia on January 07, 2026, 09:37:59 AM
Great result! And a nice bit of recycling  :smiley:

... I take it the space on the right side of hull is for the optional NAAFI tea dispensing module? ...

Oh great. Now I've got a quadcopter-based frontline tea-and-bicky delivery service stuck in my head!
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Claymore on January 08, 2026, 01:21:22 AM
Oh great. Now I've got a quadcopter-based frontline tea-and-bicky delivery service stuck in my head!

 ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Ukrainian Drone Deployment System
Post by: Buzzbomb on January 08, 2026, 04:43:58 AM
Great result! And a nice bit of recycling  :smiley:

... I take it the space on the right side of hull is for the optional NAAFI tea dispensing module? ...

Oh great. Now I've got a quadcopter-based frontline tea-and-bicky delivery service stuck in my head!

Yes the totally unnecessary build to demonstrate the modular features  ;)
The exact point.. could be any module in that slot.. NAAFI module included  :smiley:

Thanks for the support. Get some pix in the finished thread now