Expert explains new Russian drone strike tactic with element of surprise

Russian forces are using a new tactic for strikes with Shahed (Geran) jet-powered drones, allowing the unmanned aerial vehicles to approach their target almost silently and undetected by radar.

This was warned by Ukrainian presidential adviser on technology issues Serhiy Beskrestnov on his Telegram channel.

According to him, information is circulating in Ukrainian Armed Forces groups on the Signal messenger about an additional electric motor on the Shahed, which supposedly allows it to fly silently. However, no such motor exists. Instead, the Russians are using a tactic of shutting off the jet engine before the strike.

“The jet engine provides enough acceleration and inertia for the final part of the flight in silence. Also, recently attempts have been recorded to approach the target at extremely low altitudes where there are no obstacles in the Shahed’s path, so that our radars do not see them. These two factors should be taken into account by mobile fire groups and other units. A Shahed can appear out of nowhere,” Beskrestnov wrote.

At the same time, the presidential adviser noted that the new restriction on Starlink communication speed while in motion has again caused problems with intercepting jet-powered UAVs.

“The speed of Starlink while in motion has been restricted again. We didn’t get to enjoy it for long. So problems have again arisen with communication with helicopters that pursue Shaheds, and with jet interceptors that shoot down jet-powered Shaheds. The American side will likely cite the terms of the military tariff plan for Ukraine, but for several years these terms did not bother anyone. Moreover, any terms can be changed and discussed, instead of leaving our country without sky protection,” he wrote.

Recall that Russia has begun using an enlarged version of the Gerbera-2 drone against Ukraine, capable of covering up to 1,200 km and carrying a warhead weighing up to 25 kg.