Changes in Russian military tactics following the destruction of Ukrainian drones and helicopters
After Ukrainian forces successfully destroyed a Russian Mi-8 helicopter using advanced FPV drones, the Russian military command has began to dramatically alter its tactics on the Donbas front.
The refusal to use helicopters for rotations and evacuations—stemming from successful Ukrainian operations, notably near Pokrovsk—was confirmed by Taras Myshak, a senior communication officer of the 59th Separate Assault Brigade of UAV systems, named after Yakov Ganzjuk.
He explained that Russian forces now seldom deploy helicopters in combat, aiming to avoid Ukrainian drone strikes.
However, Russian aviation continues to drop guided bombs, particularly precision-guided aerial bombs (KABs), capable of striking targets up to 200 km away, staying out of Ukrainian air defense reach.
This indicates an advancement in enemy technology and increasing their capabilities in modern combat.
Additionally, Myshak noted that Russia has reached a certain parity with Ukrainian forces in the use of unmanned and aviation technology, employing ‘Shahids’ and ‘Gerbers’ not only behind lines but also on the frontline, complicating the defense efforts of Ukraine.