Ukrainian drone operators dismantle costly anti-aircraft systems with DIY tactics

In the Kupiansk region, Ukrainian drone operators successfully neutralized a pair of short-range anti-aircraft systems, 9K330 Tor, each valued at tens of millions of dollars. Here's how they accomplished this feat.

Drone pilots from the 14th Mechanized Brigade managed to destroy two self-propelled 9K330 Tor anti-aircraft systems, priced at about 25-30 million dollars each, using improvised "kamikaze" drones that cost roughly 1,000 dollars apiece.

The radars of these anti-aircraft systems were, until recently, not equipped to detect targets with a radar signature and flight pattern resembling birds. These targets were often dismissed by the radar software of older systems as mere noise, thus not alerting the operator.

Modern radars designed specifically to detect drones have become harder to fool. However, older systems can still be deceived by drones with low radar signatures piloted by experienced operators who can mimic the flight behavior of birds to some extent.

This strategy allowed the operators to approach and subsequently damage or destroy the Tor systems undetected—a significant loss for the adversary, especially given the challenges they face in producing electronic components.

The drones utilized are FPV (First Person View) models available commercially, which are modified by removing unnecessary components like the casing. What remains is essentially the frame, electric motors, rotors, battery, and camera.

To these drones, either a bomblet from cluster munitions or an anti-tank grenade PG-7VL is attached using tape or cable ties, transforming them into precise weapons with a reach of several hundred yards to slightly over 0.6 miles. Alternatively, another type of explosive charge with a detonator can be used, activated by connecting wires that close a circuit to trigger an explosion.

Despite their effectiveness in neutralizing even tanks, these drones have vulnerabilities. The most significant is their susceptibility to electronic warfare systems, which can disrupt drone operations over varying distances. Nonetheless, drone pilots have adapted by finding usable frequencies, although it's always a question of time before these are countered, leading to a continuous cycle of evasion and adaptation.