Ukrainian drones conduct daring rescue of prisoners from Russians
Ukrainians are employing various strategies to rescue their people. One exciting method involves the exclusive use of drones by soldiers from the 1st Independent Armored Brigade to free Ukrainian prisoners from Russian captivity. Here’s a look at how the operation unfolded and what equipment was used.
As shown in the video below, released by the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, three Ukrainian prisoners were being escorted by five Russian soldiers. Aware of the harsh treatment prisoners often receive from the Russians, if not shot immediately, the Ukrainian forces decided to attempt a rescue using only drones.
An observation drone equipped with a thermal imaging camera oversaw the operation, while drones known as "Baba Yaga" targeted the Russian soldiers furthest from the prisoners with bombs. Some Russian soldiers were hit, and the remaining soldiers fled. Another drone then guided the freed Ukrainians to safety.
Drones are used by both Ukrainians and Russians as a substitute for virtually everything, from kinetic attacks on tanks and individual soldiers to delivering medical aid to the wounded and disrupting enemy logistics at the rear.
"Baba Yaga" drones - a multifunctional design of civilian origin
The term "Baba Yaga" refers to civilian drones adapted for professional military use. These drones often include agricultural or transportation models, such as the DJI FlyCart 30. They are typically capable of flying at altitudes of up to 10,000 feet and have ranges of 12-19 miles, with the ability to carry up to 66 pounds.
This capability allows them to transport single large bombs or several smaller ones, often based on mortar shells or 3D-printed casings filled with explosives from dismantled unexploded ordnance. A couple of these drones, especially when equipped with thermal vision, can effectively devastate Russian positions, a tactic that has proven successful multiple times.
"Baba Yaga" drones are also used to carry robo-dogs or FPV (First Person View) drones. Additionally, hunter drones have been introduced, equipped with single-shot rifles that allow them to shoot down enemy drones.
