Types of drones used in the Russian-Ukrainian war

Modern warfare in Ukraine has become one of the first in the world over recent decades where combat drones have been used on a massive scale — from tactical to strategic levels of operation planning. They have changed the course of reconnaissance, strike adjustment against vehicles and artillery, and even logistics. Today, a UAV is not just an assistant, but a full-fledged part of a combat system capable of influencing the outcome of hostilities. Therefore, we will explain which drones can be seen in the AFU, their types, and how they are used.

What is a drone (UAV) in war?

UAVs or drones are aerial vehicles capable of flying without a pilot on board, either via remote adjustment or fully autonomously.

Military drone components include parts such as the frame, motors, propellers with wings, batteries or fuel systems, cameras, communication systems, control modules, etc.

Functions of modern drones include:

• reconnaissance and surveillance;
• fire adjustment;
• striking targets;
• cargo delivery;
• electronic warfare (EW), etc.

In modern realities, combat drones actively influence military operations in real-time. A properly selected UAV can neutralize the enemy's offensive potential and save infantry lives. Reconnaissance drones help utilize ballistic protection more effectively during shelling by determining where the fire is coming from and facilitating counterattacks.

Different types of drones in war

Modern war has demonstrated the rapid development of unmanned technologies, leading to a wide variety of drones, each with its own functionality and specific usage.

Drones come in the following types:

1. Reconnaissance: used to monitor the enemy and transmit real-time information. Most often used to gain tactical superiority.
2. Strike: equipped with additional munitions and a drop system to carry out attacks.
3. FPV drones: controlled by an operator in first-person view mode, also known as "kamikaze drones."
4. Loitering munitions: combine the functionality of a drone and a missile, staying in the air for long periods and attacking the target under optimal conditions.
5. Logistics: used in the army to deliver ammunition, equipment, provisions, medicine, etc.
6. EW drones: designed for signal jamming and countering enemy unmanned aerial vehicles.
7. Relay drones: drones that help establish stable communication between various units, counteracting enemy drones and EW.

Types of drones and their characteristics

The Russian-Ukrainian war demonstrates the importance of combat units having military drones with unique characteristics suited for their specific tasks.

War drones can have a wide range of characteristics:

• Flight range: determines the radius within which the UAV can operate (from short range to 10+ km);
• Flight duration: the time a drone can stay in the air without recharging (optimal options work for 60+ min);
• Noise level: a military multicopter must be quiet, which is vital for reconnaissance and logistics;
• Ease of maintenance: the ability to quickly replace batteries and damaged parts like propellers and antennas;
• Camera quality: high resolution and thermal imaging are essential for detailed data collection;
• Control system protection: resistance to EW and signal jamming;
• Maneuverability: the ability to quickly change direction and altitude to avoid being shot down;
• Control type: includes both manual operator control and automated systems;
• Compactness: small dimensions and rapid deployment capabilities.

Which drones does the AFU use?

During the Russian-Ukrainian war, AFU units have actively implemented systems for managing and using drones from leading brands with various characteristics.

DJI Mavic 3

One of the most popular and affordable drones used across many military units due to its versatility. It features a high-resolution camera with a sensitive sensor.

• Flight duration: up to 46 min;
• Compact size;
• Signal transmission: up to 15 km;
• Obstacle detection.

FPV Drones

Custom-built or industrial models that have filled a vital niche. They offer low cost, high maneuverability, and the ability to carry combat payloads. These "kamikaze" tools are effective for point strikes on personnel and equipment.

Bayraktar TB2

Turkish medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drones known for high autonomy and performance in difficult weather. Features include a 27-hour flight time, high-precision targeting, and a 7.5 km service ceiling.

Leleka-100

A Ukrainian-made reconnaissance drone designed for real AFU needs. It features hand-launch capability, up to 3 hours of flight time, and high resistance to jamming.

PD-2

A multi-purpose Ukrainian fixed-wing UAV used for long-range reconnaissance (up to 100 km) and monitoring. It features vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capabilities and high-quality optics.

Shark (Aqualung)

A large fixed-wing drone designed for deep reconnaissance and fire adjustment for modern strike systems. It features a flight range of up to 80 km and secure communication channels.

How do drones affect the course of combat operations?

Drones have transformed classical warfare into a war of technologies. Key changes include increased reconnaissance efficiency, precise artillery adjustment, reduced risk to personnel, and the ability to destroy expensive equipment with low-cost tools. They serve as "eyes in the sky," making armored vehicles more vulnerable and increasing the importance of individual military helmets and protective fortifications.