Inside Ukraine’s Drone Operations: Deep Strikes on Russian Territory

In recent months, Ukraine has escalated its military operations by deploying drones for deep strikes within Russian territory. These strategic attacks aim to disrupt Russian logistics, damage critical infrastructure, and alleviate pressure on Ukrainian frontlines.

The 14th Unmanned Aerial Systems Regiment

Central to this initiative is the 14th Unmanned Aerial Systems Regiment, a specialized unit comprising several hundred personnel, including analysts and engineers. Operating covertly, the regiment focuses on long-range drone strikes targeting key Russian facilities such as airbases and industrial sites. While the unit’s founders acknowledge the significance of drone operations, they emphasize that traditional military forces remain essential for achieving a decisive outcome in the conflict.

Notable Drone Strikes

• Ryazan Oil Refinery Attack: On January 24, 2025, Ukrainian drones targeted one of Russia’s largest oil refineries in Ryazan, setting oil storage tanks ablaze and causing significant damage to railway loading racks and a hydrotreater unit. This attack was part of a broader raid involving 121 drones targeting 13 regions, including Moscow. The Russian Defence Ministry claimed to have intercepted and destroyed the drones but did not report casualties or damages.
  Reuters

• Kazan Drone Strike: Earlier, Ukrainian drones attacked the Russian city of Kazan, damaging several residential buildings. Local authorities reported the incident, highlighting the expanding reach of Ukraine’s drone operations.
  AP News

Implications for the Conflict

These drone operations signify a strategic shift in the conflict, enabling Ukraine to strike deep within Russian territory and target critical infrastructure. While the full impact of these operations is challenging to assess independently, they underscore the evolving nature of warfare and the increasing role of unmanned systems in modern conflicts.

Conclusion

Ukraine’s deployment of drones for deep strikes into Russian territory represents a significant development in the ongoing conflict. As both nations continue to adapt their military strategies, the role of unmanned aerial systems is expected to grow, potentially altering the dynamics of the war.

Further Reading:

• Inside the Ukrainian drone unit conducting deep strikes on Russia
• Ukrainian drones strike deep into Russian territory, hundreds of miles away