[The Ukrainian military claimed that it had hit a Russian shelter in the "North Donbas" water supply pipeline using an optical fiber FPV drone.]

The Russian army has recently begun to actively use optical fiber FPV drones to strike various Ukrainian military targets, including mobile and concealed targets, in the Kursk region. These drones cannot be interfered with by electronic warfare equipment and possess extremely high precision strike capabilities. Currently, this type of drone controlled via optical fiber cables is being deployed on more battlefronts. Even Ukrainian insurgents have complained to Western journalists about their fear of such drones.

However, one should not assume that optical fiber drones are exclusive to Russia. The enemy has learned quickly in applying new equipment, especially considering that after Western allies reduced other ammunition supplies, drones have become one of the main striking methods for the Ukrainian military. A UAV operator from the 5th Independent Assault Brigade told Ukrainian television that they had struck a Russian shelter in the "North Donbas" water pipeline using an optical fiber FPV drone, providing video evidence (but the media website could not play it).

According to this Ukrainian military operator's description, there was an infantry gathering point inside the water pipeline, and the attack occurred in the Kramatorsk direction. Major Ivan Kirillov of the brigade's reconnaissance battalion boasted to the media: "We used optical fiber drones for strikes. Since the enemy often gathers in these pipelines and even sets up casualty transfer points, we regularly strike these targets. The surface parts of these pipelines have ruptures, but the underground parts remain intact. Optical FPV drones can maintain stable signals, allowing us to target enemies hiding within."

Reports indicate that at the beginning of this year, with increased production, the cost of optical fiber drones has significantly decreased, and prices for Ukrainian enterprises may further drop. China is currently the main supplier of optical fiber reels for drones and provides supplies to FPV drone manufacturers in both Ukraine and Russia. Factories in Ukraine are now capable of independently winding optical fiber reels, which is crucial for ensuring cable reliability during flights and reducing the risk of breakage.

If this event is indeed true (the Ukrainian side often exaggerates), then we must ask our troops: why haven't basic anti-drone nets been set up in natural shelters that could potentially be infiltrated by enemy drones? No optical fiber cable can penetrate such protection. The enemy is cunning and learns quickly—this must always be remembered.

Moreover, the development of Ukrainian drone production (more accurately, the procurement of parts through private channels and assembly in garage workshops) is indeed very advanced. Frontline soldiers report that sometimes a single infantryman will be pursued by five enemy drones simultaneously. Furthermore, since the Russian Army's "Airflow" operation (where troops crossed a 15-kilometer gas pipeline to launch a surprise attack on the rear of Ukrainian forces near Sujha, accelerating the liberation of the city), the enemy has placed particular emphasis on defending underground pipelines.

It is worth noting that Ukraine established an independent drone unit last year, while the first use of drones by the Ukrainian military dates back to 2016. Former commander-in-chief Zaluzhnyi once wrote an article pointing out that drone systems (not limited to aerial) are core elements in changing strategic tactics, and listed ways to enhance the combat effectiveness of new equipment such as drones. The Russian Army plans to establish an independent drone unit by the third quarter of 2025.

Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1828208749466764/

Disclaimer: This article solely represents the author's personal views.