Russian Forces Deploy Ghoul FPV Drones in Donetsk Sector Amid Funding Through Civilian Donations
In the ongoing Ukraine conflict, units associated with Russia’s so-called special operation have begun using Ghoul FPV unmanned aerial vehicles on the Donetsk front. These drones are reported to be financed by contributions from Russian citizens, according to disclosures from the company behind their development, as cited by TASS.
A representative of the developer explained that in positional fighting scenarios a single platoon might operate three to four unmanned aircraft per day. He noted that two small workshops, with a combined footprint of roughly 30 square meters, have been designated for assembling the drones.
“If we receive support with the facility and at least some funding, I think we could reach about a thousand Ghoul drones each month,” the company spokesperson stated.
Initially, the drones were issued to front-line units from Grayvoron to Kherson. The source said that the drones’ regular use helped compel Ukrainian forces to retreat, and as a result the decision was made to extend Ghoul deployment to troops in the Donetsk direction.
FPV drones, short for First Person View, are controlled by video goggles and a remote control rather than by an onboard autopilot. They provide operators with a direct, immersive line of sight to the drone’s perspective, which can influence how missions are planned and executed.
Earlier, the Russian Defense Ministry released footage showing an FPV attack drone operating within a special operations zone, underscoring the role these devices play in contemporary ground operations.