Russian forces have expanded efforts to disrupt Ukraine’s growing use of mid-range strike drones by deploying electronic jamming systems and disguising military supplies, according to Ukrainian drone commanders.
Ukrainian officials told Reuters that Russia has introduced new tactics to reduce the effectiveness of drone attacks targeting supply routes, fuel depots, command centers, and air defense positions. Consequently, Moscow aims to limit the impact of Ukraine’s increasingly successful deep-strike operations.
Ukraine relies heavily on mid-range drones connected through Starlink satellite internet, operated by SpaceX. These drones allow operators to control aircraft from long distances while maintaining stable communication links.
However, Ukrainian commanders said Russia has installed advanced electronic warfare systems near towns and military sites. These systems reportedly interfere with Starlink signals and make drone operations more difficult.
Defense Ministry adviser Serhii Beskrestnov said Russia has deployed the Volna Kupol Garant jamming system. He explained that the equipment can disrupt Starlink connections across roughly 20 square kilometers. So far, Ukrainian forces have identified about ten such systems.
Nevertheless, Ukrainian drone units quickly target the jamming installations after detecting them. Commanders from the 422nd Unmanned Systems Regiment said they successfully destroyed two systems during joint operations with Ukraine’s SBU security service. After one strike, operators reported that Starlink-connected drones resumed normal operations.
Meanwhile, Russia has adopted additional measures to shield military logistics. Ukrainian commanders said Russian troops transport fuel using vehicles disguised as civilian trucks, including water tankers and milk trucks. Furthermore, they move supplies through smaller convoys, secondary roads, motorcycles, and civilian cars.
Ukraine’s military intelligence also reported that Russian forces conceal supplies inside abandoned buildings, agricultural structures, camouflaged shelters, and civilian fuel stations.
Military analyst Rob Lee said Ukraine’s mid-range drone campaign remains one of the war’s most significant battlefield developments. However, he warned that expanded Russian production of electronic jamming systems could reduce Ukraine’s operational advantage.
Despite these countermeasures, fighting continues across the front, while both sides adapt rapidly through evolving technology and battlefield tactics.
