Ukraine's Border Guards Unveil Tactics: How Strike Teams Hunt Down Drone Shooters

The FPV drone pilots from the Hart Brigade of Ukraine’s State Border Guard Service are conducting combat operations in the Vovchansk area. These service members undertake numerous assignments irrespective of the weather or time of day, as reported by the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.

As stated by the SBS, the brigade comprises two teams from the Scorpion unit: one team operates during daylight hours and another takes over at night. Their responsibilities encompass all tasks related to drones—from initial setup to deployment and engaging with hostile targets.

The operators exchanged tales regarding the details of their "missions," the difficulties encountered by drones during operations, and methods used for identifying adversaries.

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"This is an FPV drone featuring a 7-inch diagonal screen. The cost of just one camera on such a drone is around 30,000 Ukrainian hryvnias. However, this particular unit can identify enemies even in complete darkness or during dusk," remarked the border guard known as Malyi.

A previous artillery crew member identified as Sutik mentioned that the drone operators within their unit consistently enhance their abilities. According to him, he initially used a "Mavic" before becoming fascinated with first-person view (FPV) drones. After completing two training programs, he keeps up his regular practice sessions.

"Sutik mentioned that it's more intriguing to pilot into shelters and collaborate with microcontrollers," she said.

Meanwhile, the border guards demonstrated the work of the border guard with the call sign Jack, who flies a drone with a thermal camera to enemy positions at night.

"As the camera picks up heat signatures, it distinctly marks both troops and gear. However, at times, from afar, one could mistakenly identify enemies as wild boar or other creatures seen through the thermal lens. Thus, we frequently need to move nearer for precise recognition," explained Jack.

A drone pilot known as Kramakha mentioned that he handles a daylight-operated drone. Familiar with the region, he understands both the adversary’s primary routes and hideouts, thus he diligently searches for potential targets.

Occasionally, upon hearing the drone’s noise, the adversary starts firing at it right away. These individuals become our priority targets ," emphasized Kramakha.

Earlier, we mentioned that drones operating in the Vovchansk area have evolved into more than just combat aids; they've also taken on the role of messengers for our troops.

Due to the Vampire bombers, military personnel get essential provisions and messages from their loved ones.

To learn more about how the "delivery service" operates in Vovchansk, check out the complete article from RBC-Ukraine.