Ukraine's Drone War: How the SBS Strategy Works
Ukrainian drones can strike targets in Russia at distances of up to 2,000 km. The Unmanned Systems Forces say they are taking out more than 30,000 Russian troops every month. The main goal is to deter the enemy and strike at its resources. Robert “Madyar” Brovdi, commander of the Unmanned Systems Forces, spoke about this in an interview with the BBC.
Robert “Madyar” Brovdi, commander of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ Unmanned Systems Forces, explained how the unit’s strategy works. In an interview with the BBC, he explained that drones have become a key tool both for striking the enemy’s rear and for destroying enemy manpower.
According to him, Ukrainian drones are already capable of operating 1,500–2,000 km deep into Russian territory. Among the main targets are oil refineries and other infrastructure that funds the war. “These facilities are legitimate military targets,” the commander noted.
A separate focus of operations is targeting Russian army personnel. According to Madyar, the UAS units have a target of over 30,000 occupiers eliminated each month. This is more than Russia can replenish through mobilization. “About 30% of strikes are directed specifically at manpower,” he explained.
He added that every strike is recorded and confirmed by video. This is necessary for both reporting and effectiveness analysis. Although the Unmanned Systems Forces make up only about 2% of the total strength of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, their contribution is significantly greater. According to data cited in the interview, they account for approximately one-third of all targets destroyed on the front lines.
The unit also has a relatively low casualty rate—less than 1% per year. This is attributed to the fact that a significant portion of the work is carried out remotely. Madyar emphasized that the main goal of this strategy is not large-scale offensives, but constant pressure on the enemy. This involves strikes against resources, equipment, and personnel, which gradually wear down the Russian Federation’s army.
In addition, the psychological effect is also important. Strikes deep into enemy territory and the resulting losses, according to the commander, affect morale both within the military and among civilians in Russia. “Our task is to contain and wear down,” he concluded.
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