Russia adopts new tactic against Ukrainian drones

Russia is deploying a new tactic in its fight against Ukrainian drones, using unmanned systems fitted with metal rods or trident-like attachments to physically destroy targets in mid-air, according to the British newspaper The Telegraph.

The approach appears to be aimed primarily at cheaper Ukrainian drones made with foam or polystyrene components, which are more vulnerable to mechanical damage.

Experts say the tactic marks a shift from earlier methods, when Russian drones were more likely to attempt to disrupt or destabilise an adversary. The new approach offers a potential advantage in that the attacking drone may survive the impact and be reused.

At the same time, however, analysts point to the practical limits of the tactic. Direct hits are technically demanding and can also damage the attacking drone. Its effectiveness compared with conventional explosive systems is therefore being questioned.

(mja)