Ukrainian drone operators from the 2nd Battalion of the 14th Separate Regiment of the Unmanned Systems Forces conducted targeted strikes on russian military assets near the border of Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk regions. According to official reports, the attacks were carried out using drone systems operating at an operational-tactical depth.
One of the main targets was russian Buk surface-to-air missile system. A direct hit caused a detonation of the missiles mounted on the launcher, resulting in its complete destruction. The operation was conducted in coordination with the aerial reconnaissance unit of the 74th Separate Reconnaissance Battalion.
Read more: Ukrainian Artillery Destroys Five russian Howitzers and Ammunition Depot in Zaporizhzhia Region
The Buk system is part of russia's medium-range air defense network and is typically used to defend against aircraft and cruise missiles. Its destruction reduces the coverage area of russian air defense in the affected sector.
In a separate strike in the same area, Ukrainian forces also identified and hit the Strela-10 short-range air defense system. The system had been concealed in a forested area, which suggests it was being used in a defensive or ambush position.
In addition to the two air defense systems, two more pieces of russian armored equipment were struck and reportedly destroyed. The exact models of the armored vehicles have not been disclosed.
These actions reflect Ukraine's continued use of unmanned aerial systems for targeting key assets in the rear areas of russian forces. Coordination between reconnaissance and strike elements remains a central part of these operations.
As Defense Express previously reported, Ukrainian forces have reported the destruction of five russian 152 mm howitzers and a field ammunition depot during a recent strike in the Zaporizhzhia direction. The operation was carried out by the 44th Separate Artillery Brigade.
According to an official statement from the Brigade, the targeted artillery pieces were 2A65 Msta-B howitzers, a towed artillery system commonly used by russian forces for long-range indirect fire support.
Read more: Ukrainian Drones Destroy russia’s $10 Million Buk-M1 SAM System
