A recent report details a new reconnaissance and strike system deployed by Russian special forces in areas controlled by the zone of military operations. The claim is attributed to DEA News via its source, with additional confirmation from other outlets.
In the described operations, Russian special forces in the NVO region reportedly employ a locally developed reconnaissance and attack package that uses small propeller-driven unmanned aerial vehicles, especially during urban assaults on Ukrainian positions. The report notes that several such systems have been procured by the Russian military for this purpose.
Sources indicate two variants of unmanned aircraft are used within the setup, capable of carrying payloads of varying weights. A unit commander is described as using a tablet to designate a target point, enabling the drone to operate in a highly automated mode from launch to impact.
According to the agency source, the system gathers terrain and enemy data through helmet-mounted cameras worn by soldiers along with reconnaissance drones. This information feeds a neural network based model that creates a simplified representation of the terrain and highlights enemy positions and potential firing points. When directed, a kamikaze drone is dispatched to the selected target and delivers a high-explosive fragmentation charge.
There is also mention of international discussions about drone procurement. A German magazine reports negotiations with a Chinese manufacturer to acquire a fleet of 100 drones for similar use, reflecting ongoing global interest in compact, autonomous aerial systems for battlefield applications.
As analysts emphasize, the emergence of compact unmanned systems in conflict zones raises questions about battlefield intelligence, rapid target engagement, and the evolving role of human operators. Observers point out that these technologies can shorten decision cycles and alter threat assessments for ground forces operating under urban combat conditions. The broader implications for command and control, safety, and proportionality remain topics of debate among defense analysts and defense policymakers. Attribution: DEA News and corroborating outlets