This advancement was announced by the commander of the long-range UAV operators group within the GUR during an interview with the Radio Liberty Donbas.Reality project.
Expanding Operational Capabilities with Advanced Drones
The GUR has integrated approximately 20 different types of long-range drones into its operational arsenal, enabling the destruction of strategic targets deep within enemy territory. These drones are instrumental in conducting precise strikes, thereby enhancing Ukraine's defensive and offensive capabilities against adversarial forces.
Successful Launch of "Feb" Drones
Recently, journalists from the Donbas.Reality group witnessed the successful launch of the "Feb" drones during nighttime operations. This demonstration showcased the drones' ability to operate effectively under cover of darkness, ensuring stealth and minimizing detection by enemy forces.
Commander of the Long-Range UAV Operators Group, a representative of the Donbas.Reality project, stated:
"We are the group that was the first to launch almost all long-range drones. We started with something small, now we hit targets at 2,000 km – this is an extraordinary change. Adapting is not difficult. In principle, all drones are quite simple. Our personnel undergo regular training. The manufacturers are coming to meet us, they are conducting it quite actively and quickly."
Strategic Impact of Long-Range Drone Operations
The introduction of long-range drones has fundamentally transformed the operational dynamics of Ukraine's defense forces. By enabling strikes on distant targets, these drones provide a strategic advantage that disrupts enemy logistics and command structures.
Successful Attacks on Russian Facilities
A few hours after the drone launch witnessed by journalists, footage emerged showing a fire at an oil refinery in the Saratov region of Russia, located over 600 kilometers from the Ukrainian border. Subsequently, Kaluga Region Governor Vladislav Shapsha reported that an enterprise in Kaluga city was set ablaze following a drone attack.
The Ukrainian General Staff confirmed the successful destruction of an oil depot in the Kaluga region on the night of November 25, stating:
"Units of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense, together with other components of the Defense Forces, attacked a number of important facilities of the Russian Federation, particularly in the Bryansk, Kaluga, and Kursk regions. We have confirmed the successful destruction of an oil depot in the Kaluga Region, and the results of work on other facilities are being specified."
Future Plans for Drone Production and Deployment
In November 2024, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced an ambitious plan to significantly expand the production of long-range drones:
"Next year, Ukraine will produce at least 30,000 long-range drones at Ukrainian technological facilities."
This initiative aims to enhance the country's defense capabilities further and ensure sustained operational effectiveness against ongoing threats.
Increasing Role of Drones in the Russian-Ukrainian Conflict
Throughout the full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war, the role of drones has grown exponentially. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become indispensable for:
- Compensating for Russian Artillery Superiority: Providing reconnaissance and targeting support to mitigate the advantages held by Russian artillery units.
- Conducting Long-Range Strikes: Enabling precise attacks on military facilities and infrastructure hundreds of kilometers away, thereby disrupting enemy operations and supply lines.
Enhancing Military Effectiveness and Reducing Casualties
The deployment of long-range drones has not only improved the effectiveness of Ukrainian strikes but has also contributed to the safety of Ukrainian soldiers by minimizing the need for direct confrontations in hostile territories.
Conclusion
The successful deployment and operation of long-range drones by Ukraine's Armed Forces mark a pivotal advancement in modern military strategy. By extending the reach of their offensive capabilities, Ukraine is effectively countering Russian aggression and safeguarding its sovereignty. As Ukraine continues to invest in drone technology and expand its production capabilities, these unmanned systems will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the conflict and ensuring national security.
