TechRussian drones armed with nails in a bid to counter Ukrainian tech

Russian drones armed with nails in a bid to counter Ukrainian tech

Russian drone - illustrative photo
Russian drone - illustrative photo
Images source: © Telegram | @Ne_Donskoy
Karolina Modzelewska

16 September 2024 15:48

Recently, information has emerged about a new method of combating Russian drones. Defence Express reports that Russian drone operators are mounting nails on their unmanned aerial vehicles. These nails are intended to be additional security measures and weapons helpful in destroying opponent drones during aerial engagements.

The Russians claim to have discovered a new, effective way to eliminate enemy drones. It involves attaching nails to unmanned aerial vehicles. One of the instructors training Russian soldiers on the front line explained to Russian media what role they play. After detecting an enemy drone, the Russian unmanned aerial vehicle armed with nails strikes the device, which damages it.

The Russians are "upgrading" their drones

He said that the propellers would hit the nails and break, and the enemy drone would fall to the ground. The instructor also mentioned that this is not about accidental collisions but deliberate "hunts," where the drone armed with nails is tasked with neutralising the opponent and returning to base in one piece. Defence Express notes that certain units may only use this method when they encounter enemy drones during missions and emphasises that its effectiveness in certain situations cannot be ruled out.

The Russians seek additional ways to protect their unmanned aerial vehicles and deal more effectively with Ukrainian drones, particularly FPV (First Person View) drones. Ukrainian FPV drones are characterised by simplicity and effectiveness. Additionally, the drones are inexpensive to produce. Still, on the other hand, the operators of these drones use advanced technologies that allow them to neutralise a wide range of targets—from other drones through artillery systems to Russian tanks.

Experts from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) emphasise the significant impact of these machines on the front-line situation. Ukrainian drones have already destroyed many strategic targets, such as refineries, military airports, and other key objects located long distances from the front lines. Thanks to effective attacks, many Russian units have had to move further into the country, which increases the safety of Ukrainian cities.

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