According to russian propaganda media, citing sources within the so-called Ministry of Defense, new agricultural drone units are being formed within russia’s UAV battalions.
These units will be equipped with agricultural copters and their analogues. The russian military claims that organizing these drones into dedicated units is an effective operational solution.
Read more: Ukrainian Border Guards Target russian Positions with the Baba Yaga Heavy Drone (Video)
In reality, russia is copying Ukraine’s innovative use of multicopters as makeshift heavy bombers. russian troops have repeatedly complained about Ukrainian drones like the Vampire and R18 - both commonly referred to by them as Baba Yaga. Due to the demonstrated battlefield effectiveness of these drones, russian forces are now attempting to adopt similar tactics.
The term “agricultural drones” is a euphemism, referring primarily to octocopters capable of carrying substantial payloads.
In combat, Baba Yaga-type drones can perform a range of tasks - from striking armored vehicles and fortifications to acting as signal relays or motherships for smaller FPV drones.
Notably, russia is already employing these capabilities on the battlefield. For example, we previously reported that enemy forces have used mothership drones to launch FPVs at distances of up to 40 kilometers.
Regarding the types of drones to be deployed, russian sources primarily cite the Buran hexacopter. We have previously detailed its specifications and assessed the threat it may pose. Reportedly, this drone can carry payloads of up to 80 kilograms.
Another model being introduced is the MiS-35. russia announced the launch of its serial production in the summer of last year.
Read more: russia Introduces the Buran Drone, a Versatile Aerial Platform Designed for Cargo, Reconnaissance, and Attack Missions
