Russia Launches 1,300 Attack Drones in Sept, Kills 50 Ukrainian Operators; Ukraine Develops 'Shahed Hunter'

Russia's armed forces launched over 1,300 one-way attack uncrewed aerial vehicles (OWA-UAVs) against Ukraine in September 2024, marking the highest monthly total since the conflict began, according to the latest defense intelligence update from the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD).

Based on current operational rates, the MOD indicated it is “almost certain” that Russia will exceed this number in October 2024. The report raises concerns about the potential for increased drone attacks in the coming weeks, although it remains uncertain whether Russia can sustain this level of activity throughout the remainder of the year.

The report highlights that Russia employs its OWA-UAVs against various targets, particularly energy infrastructure. The drones can strike deep into Ukrainian territory, which puts ongoing pressure on Ukraine's air defense capabilities. The increase in drone launches may be partly attributed to enhanced support from Iran, which has reportedly bolstered Russia's domestic drone production capabilities.

In response to the heightened drone threat, Ukraine has developed the Sting drone, specifically designed to intercept the Iranian-manufactured Shahed drones that have been widely deployed by Russia, the UK MOD said. The Sting is a first-person view (FPV) drone that can be controlled by an operator using virtual reality (VR) goggles. To effectively engage its targets, the Sting FPV drone must reach speeds exceeding 100 mph and operate at altitudes close to 10,000 feet.

Russian Airstrike in Destroys 50 Ukrainian Drone Operators, Equipment

On October 23, Russia reportedly struck a temporary deployment point of a Ukrainian Armed Forces drone detachment in Kurakhovo with a FAB-3000 bomb, according to the Russian Defense Ministry.

The ministry indicated that the operation resulted in the destruction of approximately 50 operators and instructors, along with seven units of enemy weapons and military equipment. It was also noted that the building was occupied by UAV operators from the “Ptahi Madyara” group, whose location had been identified by drone operators from the Russian group “Yug.”