The Russian army is increasing the use of fiber-optic-controlled drones, significantly increasing the effectiveness of ambushing the logistics of Ukrainian forces.
Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with fiber optic connections are becoming an effective tool for the Russian military to organize ambushes on Ukrainian forces’ supply routes.
These systems possess stealth and electronic warfare (EW) capabilities, allowing for precise attacks on enemy equipment while remaining immune to traditional UAV interception methods. The primary goal of such operations is to intercept and destroy Ukrainian military supply chains near the combat zone.
Conventional FPV drones that rely on radio signals cannot be effective in these areas due to enemy EW.
The special feature of fiber optic UAVs is that they use cables up to several kilometers long, ensuring stable control and data transmission without the risk of signal interception or interference. This allows the operator to secretly control the UAV, bringing it to the attack position in conditions where standard communication systems are disabled.
The technology is especially valuable in confined areas of the front, where it is possible to predict enemy equipment routes. The Russian military actively uses these systems to hunt down armored vehicles, evacuation vehicles, and vehicles moving along reconnaissance routes.
The southern Donetsk, Toretsk, Kupyansk regions as well as the border area of the Kursk region recorded a significant increase in the use of such tactics.
Ambush tactics using fiber-optic UAVs are highly effective because they can remain in standby mode for long periods of time. Unlike traditional FPVs that require energy to maintain a radio signal, these UAVs can be placed in strategic locations, such as on rooftops or in forested areas, and only activated when a target appears.
This not only ensures concealment, but also saves resources and reduces costs to a minimum. The main targets are single vehicles or small units of soldiers, making it difficult to support Ukrainian positions on the front line.
