Wooden propellers, catapults, and explosives: cheap Ukrainian drones destroy costly Russian targets

Rudimentary drones equipped with wooden propellers, catapults, and 8 kilograms of explosives are effectively destroying millions of dollars worth of Russian military equipment. Ukraine's 'Birds of Magyar' drone brigade operates these low-cost B2 drones, targeting Russian supply lines day and night, even deep within occupied territories.

VRT NWS accompanied the brigade to a secret launch location in eastern Ukraine, observing firsthand the destruction of a Russian Tor air defense system, valued at millions of euros. The brigade's strategy is simple: ensure each launched drone targets an asset more valuable than the drone itself. "Every drone we launch must hit a target worth more than the drone itself," stated a brigade commander.

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Elke drone die we lanceren, moet een doel raken dat meer waard is dan de drone zelf.

The brigade operates in the challenging terrain of eastern Ukraine, where uncultivated fields, a consequence of the ongoing war, are now overgrown. "After the heavy rain of the past few days, this is the ideal weather for us to work," said press officer Ruberoid, consulting a military map on his phone. The team was heading towards Dobropilja, a heavily contested city in the Donetsk province.

Under the cover of tree canopies, the drones are prepared for launch. Soldiers meticulously check connections, cameras, and the approximately 8-kilogram warheads. Fuel tanks are filled with gasoline, with 7 to 8 liters sufficient for about 200 kilometers. This operation is part of a broader Ukrainian campaign that has targeted Russian oil refineries and weapons factories since last summer. Ukraine's General Staff reports that over 40 percent of Russia's refining capacity is now idle, a response to initial Russian attacks on Ukrainian refineries.

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De Russen vernietigden onze raffinaderijen aan het begin van de oorlog. Vandaag importeren we al onze benzine. Nu vernietigen we die van hen.