A Ukrainian commander involved in a campaign to target Russian oil facilities with drones stated that while Russia is improving its ability to intercept drones, Ukraine is developing new technologies to stay ahead. Since early August, Ukraine has attacked Russian energy sites over 60 times, causing significant disruptions to Russia’s oil pipeline system. The commander, known only as Charlie, mentioned that their drones can fly distances up to 2,000 km.
He noted the high skill level of the Russian military, which adapts quickly to Ukrainian tactics. Drone warfare has evolved since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, with both sides launching drones over long distances. Ukraine believes that targeting Russia’s energy infrastructure is crucial for gaining an advantage in the conflict.
Russian officials assert that they will not change their strategy based on external pressure and claim that attacks on their oil industry escalate tensions. Charlie did not disclose how many drones are used in each attack or the number intercepted, nor did he discuss U. S. intelligence support. He emphasized that Russia is prepared and has a strong air defense system.
Despite this, Ukraine continues to exploit weaknesses in Russia’s defenses using advanced technology. The commander indicated a shift in focus toward the quality of drones over quantity, supported by a dedicated R&D team. President Zelenskiy mentioned up to 300 drones might be involved in a single attack, though sources suggest the actual numbers are smaller and include decoys. Charlie asserted that relying on quality and innovative technologies has been key to their success.
With information from Reuters