Russian forces have begun using «Shahed»-type attack UAVs as carriers for smaller FPV drones, according to the monitoring project «eRadar», during attacks on the Kyiv region. This configuration is confirmed by a video released by F-Drones: on 2 September, a crew from the «Staff» unit of the 158th Separate Mechanised Brigade intercepted such a drone using a Ukrainian LITAVR UAV.
Briefly about the main points
- «eRadar» reported that FPV drones had been used in attacks on the Kyiv region.
- Small drones can detach from their carrier in the operational area.
- The F-Drones video shows FPV cameras mounted on the wings of the «Shahed».
- A similar weapon had previously been used against Zaporizhzhia.
- Jet-powered UAVs and FPV drones are different types of Russian attacks.
The carrier transports small drones closer to the area of operation
In the diagram shown, a large, long-range drone acts as a transport platform for several smaller FPVs. Once delivered to the operational area, they can operate independently.
This method may increase the FPV risk zone in rear areas, as the small drone does not cover the bulk of the route autonomously, but rather whilst on board a carrier. According to estimates F-Drones, a single aircraft in this configuration is capable of carrying several types of munitions, which presents additional challenges for air defence.
The footage shows FPV drones mounted on the wings
Footage that has been released shows additional FPVs on the wings of the downed drone. The manufacturer of the interceptor noted that Russia is changing the way it uses drones, whilst Ukrainian countermeasures are adapting to the new threats.
This is not the first time such a design has been documented. At the end of August, it was reported that a «Shahed» carrier drone had been destroyed near Konotop. DefPulse also reported that video evidence of mounts for two FPVs on «Shaheds» had emerged in February.
The scheme has already been linked to the attack on Zaporizhzhia
Head of the Zaporizhzhia Regional Military Administration Ivan Fedorov He had previously claimed that «Shahed» FPV-carrying drones had been used against Zaporizhzhia. According to him, the drone delivered the FPVs to the city centre, where they were scattered across civilian targets.
At the time, the region reported that personnel were being trained to counter FPVs and that additional protection was being provided for some infrastructure sites using anti-drone nets. Fyodorov cited figures showing that 54 FPVs had been detected in the city in a single day, eight of which reached their targets.
The appearance of FPV drones in the Kyiv region comes against a backdrop of intensified Russian drone attacks, in particular those involving the use of jet-powered UAVs. This is a distinct method of using drones, which should not be confused with the «Shahed» carrier configuration.
