The Uncrewed Systems Forces of Ukraine (USF), in coordination with the Security Service of Ukraine (SSU), announced an attack on a training and production center belonging to Russia's Academy of Missile and Artillery Sciences on 20/5. The strike, occurring in Snizhne, Donetsk province, allegedly killed 65 drone pilot trainees and the center's leader, nicknamed "Buryi," a doctor at the academy.
Robert Brovdi, USF commander, stated that the facility served as a hub for training drone operators, assembling drones, and manufacturing warheads for these weapons. He added that it also functioned as a temporary deployment point for the 78th "Sever-Akhmat" motorized special forces regiment of Russia's 42nd division. Brovdi claimed that Russia previously operated three such academies in Donetsk province, but now "only two remain."
Ukrainian forces deployed 11 uncrewed aerial vehicles carrying 100 kg warheads in the attack. The center's underground ammunition depot subsequently detonated, intensifying the damage. The USF claimed the strike also destroyed repair and production workshops at the center, along with four Tigr light armored vehicles undergoing repairs. An ammunition depot and drone components were also destroyed.
Video released by Ukraine shows Ukrainian uncrewed aerial vehicles repeatedly striking a building complex, causing explosions. The end of the video depicts a large fire, apparently at the same building. Russia's Ministry of Defense has not commented on the information.
This strike forms part of Ukraine's broader effort to intensify uncrewed aerial vehicle attacks. On 17/5, the USF announced the completion of a 48-hour coordinated air campaign, comprising 186 separate attacks targeting 46 high-value russian military objectives across various fronts. According to Brovdi, these operations included strikes deep within Russia or in Moscow-controlled territory, targeting command posts, logistics centers, air defense systems, and naval infrastructure.
Pham Giang (According to Ukrainska Pravda, Kyiv Post)
