In 2024, Ukraine's Defense Forces started deploying anti-aircraft FPV drones on the battlefield. These drones have proven to be an efficient countermeasure against russian reconnaissance drones like Orlan and Zala, resulting in the destruction of hundreds of enemy UAVs.
According to a report by Ukrainska Pravda, anti-aircraft units of the 93rd Separate Mechanized Brigade, Kholodnyi Yar, were among the first to neutralize russian reconnaissance drones. Journalists interviewed brigade members currently stationed in the Kramatorsk direction, who detailed their experiences using both traditional anti-aircraft guns and FPV drones.
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A serviceman explained the use of ZU-23-2 anti-aircraft guns against drones: “If a target is at 900, 1,200, or even 1,600 meters, we can try. Sometimes we hit, sometimes not. For example, we spot two reconnaissance drones—one explodes, then the other. That’s the result of our operators taking them down using drones.” He emphasized that anti-aircraft FPV drones are particularly effective at reaching enemy UAVs.
Previously, russian reconnaissance drones flew at altitudes of 1,000–1,500 meters, but now they operate above 2,500 meters. “Our defenders have essentially forced them to these higher altitudes,” another soldier remarked.
Ivan, the commander of the brigade's anti-aircraft platoon, noted that traditional anti-aircraft guns are increasingly ineffective against drones operating at these heights. However, this is where anti-aircraft FPV drones excel.
The report highlights footage from August showing brigade fighters successfully downing their first target using an FPV drone. A soldier also recalled earlier unsuccessful attempts to arm FPV drones with shotguns, but recent advances have made the method effective.
Ivan added that FPV drones are not only cost-effective compared to anti-aircraft missiles but also highly efficient. “An FPV drone can reach high speeds, enabling us to catch up to and destroy the target. I believe FPVs are very effective in this role at the moment,” he explained.
Earlier reports indicated that FPV drones produced by the Ukrainian Wild Hornets workshop can reach speeds of up to 325 km/h, significantly enhancing their ability to intercept targets.
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