Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces Target Russian Logistics and Shipping
Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces are using long-range drones to disrupt Russian logistics, shipping, and missile sites despite critical equipment shortages.
The Unmanned Systems Forces of Ukraine are conducting a wide-scale interdiction campaign using long-range fixed-wing drones to disrupt Russian military capabilities. Under the leadership of Major Robert Brovdi, the force employs specialized units such as Magyar’s Birds to launch stealthy strikes from dispersed locations, including recent missions targeting fuel and military trucks in the Novoazovsk district of Donetsk.
These operations extend to maritime targets, where Ukrainian drones have incapacitated 300 vessels of Russia's shadow fleet in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov as of September 22. Additionally, strikes on missile launch sites in Crimea have reduced the volume of cruise and ballistic missiles launched at Ukrainian cities. On land, the Third Army Corps executed Operation Vivaldi, reclaiming approximately 68 square miles near Lyman and preventing Russian forces from encircling the Fortress Belt.
Despite these operational gains, the force faces a severe supply crisis. Major Brovdi reports that the unit possesses only 14% of the midrange drones necessary to meet its strategic objectives.
