On 24/1, Russian forces used Geran unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to destroy "Ukrainian Mi-24 and Mi-8 helicopters" at a field airfield in Kirovohrad province. The target, located south of the Malaya Viska settlement, was approximately 230-240 km from Russian-controlled territory and about 46 km west of Kanatovo airfield. Russia's Ministry of Defense announced the strike on 26/1.

The Russian military released video footage extracted from the infrared sensors of the Geran aircraft involved in the strike. The first UAV locked onto its target and crashed into an object resembling an Mi-24 attack helicopter parked on the ground. A second aircraft then approached the scene, revealing a large fire from the initial impact, before flying towards an Mi-8 helicopter.

Russian UAVs attack "Ukrainian Mi-24 and Mi-8 helicopters" in Kirovohrad province in a video released on 26/1. Video: Russian Ministry of Defense

The Ukrainian military has not commented on the information.

Ukrainian electronic warfare expert Serhiy Beskrestnov noted a shift in Russian tactics. He stated that Russia did not use signal relay UAVs, marking the first time Geran aircraft were directly controlled in real time via satellite internet. The UAVs also flew low to avoid detection by Ukrainian surveillance radar.

Rybar, a social media account linked to the Russian military and often used as an alternative source for Moscow's official statements, highlighted the strategic importance of this attack. Previously, Russia often used expensive missiles to target Ukrainian aircraft in Kirovohrad province. "Now, enemy aircraft will be hunted in real time," Rybar stated, adding that the helicopter targets were symbolic, as Ukraine frequently uses them to counter Geran UAVs. "The tables have turned; the hunter has become the hunted."

According to Rybar, technological advancements have blurred the concept of a "deep rear" for both Ukraine and Russia, with UAVs repeatedly striking targets far from the front line. This necessitates deploying radar and air defense systems, including 12,7 mm machine guns, in these areas.

Location of Malaya Viska settlement. Graphics: RYV

The Geran is a Russian UAV based on the Iranian-developed Shahed-136 design. Since its initial deployment in october 2022, Russia has consistently upgraded the Geran series. Improvements include jet engines for higher and faster flight, heavier warheads, enhanced sensors, remote control systems, and even air-to-air missiles to shoot down Ukrainian aircraft.

The Russian military also continuously alters its Geran UAV attack tactics. These include deploying large numbers of aircraft to overwhelm Ukrainian air defenses and pave the way for subsequent missile strikes. Additionally, some camera-equipped units are tasked with hunting mobile Ukrainian air defense teams and designating targets for follow-up attacks.

Nguyen Tien (According to RIA Novosti, AP, RBC Ukraine)