Ukrainian forces continue to devastate Russian military equipment using cutting-edge FPV drones, rendering even the most heavily armoured vehicles useless. Footage released by the Ukrainian Armed Forces shows drones systematically disabling and destroying multiple Russian BMPs, tanks and other machinery, many of which are retrofitted with makeshift defences that fail against Ukrainian precision.
In one instance, a Russian BMP was struck and abandoned by its crew. A second armoured vehicle sent to support was also targeted and destroyed with surgical accuracy, thanks to FPV drone technology. The drones, which cost only hundreds to a few thousand US dollars (approximately £400 to £3,200), are consistently eliminating Russian hardware worth millions of dollars. For example, one destroyed TOR-M2 air defence system, valued at around $25 million (approximately £19.7 million), is a prime example of the disproportionate cost-effectiveness of Ukraine’s drone warfare strategy.
These drone strikes are not only financially damaging to Russia but also severely demoralise enemy troops. Abandoned vehicles, destroyed from the sky, have become symbolic of Russia’s deteriorating military capacity. Operators are seen targeting weak spots in enemy tanks and artillery barrels, even during night operations using thermal imaging and infrared.
Captured footage from Kherson region shows a TOR-M2 system erupting into flames after a successful drone strike, with the crew seen fleeing the scene. A video later surfaced confirming the total destruction of the vehicle. This type of warfare has become a cornerstone of Ukraine’s defence, where drone operators now play a crucial role as front-line soldiers of a new generation.
Many Russian armoured vehicles seen on the battlefield are outdated Soviet-era machines or improvised versions, highlighting Russia’s apparent depletion of modern equipment. Makeshift armouring and electronic warfare systems like REBs prove ineffective against the agility and targeting capabilities of Ukrainian drones. Even advanced drone defences such as overhead grilles or so-called “mangals” fail to offer protection from the precision strikes.
The use of drones to destroy artillery barrels, by flying directly into their muzzle, has become a refined Ukrainian tactic, making the enemy’s heavy guns unusable and stalling their logistics and firepower. This not only disrupts Russian operations but also sends a clear message: Ukraine’s defence is smart, tactical and technologically advanced.
The evidence of these tactical successes piles up with each piece of burnt-out Russian machinery. Even during night raids, Ukrainian drone units demonstrate their superiority, proving that the Kremlin’s forces cannot hide in the dark or behind layers of outdated armour.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian military recently captured a Russian mercenary from Cameroon. He initially claimed he was forced to fight but was quickly discredited after images and videos found on his phone showed him posing with weapons and expressing support for the Russian military, indicating voluntary participation in the invasion, likely for money.
