Inside Ukraine’s Drone Forces Targeting Russia’s Rear Battlefield Positions
In eastern Ukraine, soldiers are using drones launched from slingshots to target military sites held by Russia. Their commander, known as “Kyt,” explained that they focus on enemy bases, ammunition depots, and air-defence systems. The soldiers prepare the drones, programming targets via a laptop before launching them.
Ukraine is increasing its efforts in these “middle strikes,” aimed at Russian defenses and logistical sites located 30 to 180 kilometers behind the frontline. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated that these drone strikes have increased fourfold since February, helping to slow Russian advances and shifting the battlefield momentum. According to reports, in the past month, Russia has only captured about 50 square kilometers of territory.
Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov announced an additional $113 million funding for effective strike units, emphasizing that the enemy’s rear area is no longer safe. The Ukrainian-made drones, called “Drakosha” or “little dragons,” can reach various targets, including parts of occupied Ukraine and even Russian territory. Analysts note that these strikes disrupt Russian logistics and have collateral effects on longer-range drone operations targeting Russian oil infrastructure.
The conflict has seen shifts in technological advantage, with both sides adapting in response to each other’s capabilities.
With information from Reuters