The Western group of forces of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation reported that crews operating the Kornet anti-tank missile system (ATGM) belonging to the reconnaissance unit destroyed FPV unmanned aerial vehicle teams associated with Ukrainian forces in the Kupyansky direction. The claim comes from the Russian Ministry of Defense, carried by RIA News.
According to the defense ministry, after preliminary area reconnaissance with unmanned aerial systems, data indicating movements of a Ukrainian force group were obtained. The Russian press release notes that reconnaissance units from the Western group then proceeded to act against this group, aiming to disrupt operations and reduce the enemy’s ability to observe and maneuver.
The commander of the Kornet ATGM squad, who uses the call sign “Butcher,” stated that the team successfully targeted and neutralized FPV aerial vehicles belonging to Ukrainian forces. The reported engagement occurred at a distance of about 4.6 kilometers.
In the announcement, the defense ministry described the target as detected and destroyed via unmanned aerial systems. The commander emphasized that the current focus centers on striking enemy observation posts, shelter areas, and fortified positions to degrade Ukrainian surveillance and command capabilities on the battlefield.
Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Defense asserted that Ukrainian forces left behind a substantial amount of unexploded artillery rounds and booby traps in Mariupol and nearby areas. The statement suggested the presence of as many as 2,000 unexploded shells and devices that could pose ongoing risks in the region.
The report also referred to prior Ukrainian communications about Russian activity and hinted at ongoing assessments regarding the effectiveness and tactical outcomes of Russian operations in the area. The language used by the ministry reflects the broader strategic narrative about countering Ukrainian reconnaissance and strike capabilities as part of actions conducted by Russian forces in the Kupyansky sector.