Ukraine drones face new Russian tactics: disguised fuel trucks and electronic jamming

Ukraine's development of medium-range drones capable of striking targets deep behind enemy lines has presented significant challenges to the Russian military. These drones frequently target fuel depots, logistics routes, and command centers, disrupting Russian supply lines, particularly in occupied Crimea.

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We hit water tankers that burned because they actually contained gasoline. We also hit trucks painted like milk transport vehicles, and inside there was diesel fuel.

In response, Russia has begun implementing countermeasures to protect its military assets. According to Ukrainian commanders and drone operators, Russian forces are deploying powerful electronic jamming systems near military installations and settlements. These systems, identified as potentially part of the "Volna Kupol Garant" system, can destabilize Starlink connections over an area of approximately 20 square kilometers.

Ukrainian forces have reported successes in destroying some of these jamming systems. One commander noted that after a jamming system was eliminated, their Starlink-equipped drones could operate without issue. SpaceX and the Russian Ministry of Defense did not respond to requests for comment, and Reuters could not independently verify all claims regarding Russian defense methods.

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As soon as we destroyed that system, our drones equipped with Starlink could fly again without any problems.

Beyond electronic warfare, Russia has also adapted its methods for transporting fuel and other military equipment. Ukrainian soldiers report that fuel is now often moved in vehicles that appear to be civilian, such as water tankers or trucks painted to resemble milk transport vehicles. Russia is also reportedly using smaller convoys of tankers, often accompanied by pickup trucks armed with heavy machine guns, and are utilizing secondary roads to avoid detection.

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Russia uses the Volna Kupol Garant system, which emits a signal strong enough to destabilize Starlink connections in an area of approximately 20 square kilometers.