In 2024, the Armed Forces of Ukraine began deploying anti-aircraft FPV drones to the battlefield. These drones have proven to be an effective countermeasure against Russian reconnaissance drones like Orlan and Zara, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of enemy drones.
According to a report in the Ukrainska Pravda newspaper, anti-aircraft units of the 93rd Independent Mechanized Brigade in Kholodny Yar were among the first units to neutralize Russian reconnaissance drones. Journalists interviewed members of the brigade currently stationed in the Kramatorsk area, who detailed their experiences using both conventional anti-aircraft guns and FPV drones.
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One military officer explained the use of ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft guns against drones: Sometimes it hits and sometimes it doesn’t. For example, we spotted two reconnaissance drones. One exploded, then the other. It was the result of the operator shooting them down using a drone. ”He emphasized that anti-aircraft FPV drones are particularly effective in reaching enemy UAVs.
Previously, Russian reconnaissance drones flew at altitudes of 1,000 to 1,500 meters, but now they operate at altitudes above 2,500 meters. “Our garrisons essentially forced them into these highlands,” said another soldier.
Ivan, the commander of the brigade’s anti-aircraft platoon, noted that conventional anti-aircraft guns are becoming increasingly ineffective against drones flying at such heights. However, this is where anti-aircraft FPV drones excel.
The report highlights footage from August in which brigade fighters successfully shot down their first target using an FPV drone. One soldier also recalled previous failed attempts to equip FPV drones with shotguns, but recent advances have made this method effective.
Ivan added that FPV drones are not only cost-effective but also efficient compared to anti-aircraft missiles. “FPV drones can reach high speeds, allowing them to overtake and destroy targets. At this time, we believe that FPV is very effective in this role,” he explained.
According to previous reports, the FPV drone manufactured by the Wild Hornets workshop in Ukraine has reached speeds of up to 325 km/h, significantly increasing its ability to intercept targets.
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