Ukrainian drone operators have destroyed russian Tor-M1 surface-to-air missile system deployed deep behind the frontline near temporarily occupied city of Vuhledar. The system was located and struck by operators of the Black Sky Battalion of the Spartan Brigade.
The Spartan Brigade released footage of the operation on September 14, showing the detection and engagement of russian air defense system. The strike is notable because the Tor-M1 system was not positioned directly near the front line, but was reportedly deployed in russian rear in an attempt to protect its forces and assets from Ukrainian aerial threats. The location of the system nevertheless did not prevent Ukrainian forces from finding it.
Read more: Ukrainian Border Guards Take Down russian Drones Worth Nearly $500,000 (Video)
The Tor-M1 is a mobile short-range air defense system designed to protect troops and important facilities against aircraft, guided missiles, and drones. Its ability to operate as a mobile platform allows russian forces to move it between positions and use it to provide air defense coverage for other military assets.
The Spartan Brigade estimates the value of the destroyed Tor-M1 at approximately $25 million. Beyond the financial loss, removing such a system can create a gap in russian air defense network and potentially make other nearby assets more vulnerable to subsequent Ukrainian strikes.
As Defense Express previously reported, Ukrainian reconnaissance and strike-drone operators worked together to locate and destroy russian self-propelled howitzer as it was reportedly preparing for an attack.
Read more: Ukrainian Drone Strike Eliminates russian 2S1 Gvozdika System Preparing an Attack (Video)
