21:25 24-09-2025

Ukraine Uses Aerostats in Crimea to Bypass Russian Air Defenses

Ukrainian troops are using aerostats in Crimea to distract Russian air defenses and drop GPS devices near strategic targets, a tactic that could spread beyond the peninsula.

Ukrainian forces have begun actively deploying aerostats over Crimea, a tactic that, according to the Telegram channel Rybar, is becoming increasingly routine. These balloons, often carrying payloads, are now a regular part of Ukraine’s operations against the peninsula.

The aerostats serve a dual purpose: they distract Russian air defense systems and deliver what the authors described as «gifts» — boxes equipped with parachutes and GPS trackers. These devices transmit precise coordinates, which are then used by Ukrainian forces.

Drops have been recorded near strategic targets in Crimea, including military bases, air defense positions, and troop deployment areas.

Analysts believe this approach could soon extend beyond Crimea to other Russian regions, potentially creating additional challenges for the country’s air defense network.

The Telegram channel Dva Mayora pointed out that the use of aerostats allows Ukraine to bypass Russian counter-drone defenses, which rely on coordinate spoofing. With mobile internet access restricted and civilian navigation systems disrupted, balloons have become an effective means of delivering technical equipment intended for sabotage and other hostile operations.