Ukrainian forces had to sharply change their tactics for using drones after their aircraft began to be frequently shot down at low altitudes.

A commander of a UAV countermeasures unit with the call sign Kot said that the use of Moscow-developed Yolka interceptors influenced changes in the routes and flight altitudes of Ukrainian drones. According to him, Ukrainian UAVs are now flying much higher in order to reduce the risk of being hit.

Kot noted that while in 2023 Ukrainian drones usually flew at altitudes of 150–200 meters, they now rise to 900–1,200 meters.

The serviceman stressed that Russian units have become a serious threat to Ukrainian drones, since they began destroying large numbers of enemy aircraft. As a result, he said, the enemy realized that its previous tactics no longer allowed it to achieve its goals and began sending UAVs above one kilometer.

Kot also explained that the Yolka interceptor does not carry explosives: the target is destroyed by kinetic impact. Thanks to this, the drone can be used in populated areas and along roads.

The serviceman named Lyuty, Bober, Chaika and so-called «waiter» drones among the most dangerous Ukrainian strike models. He also pointed to the growing use of reconnaissance «mother» drones, which carry four small FPV drones and can simultaneously perform strike missions.

The Moscow-developed Yolka interceptor is equipped with a built-in artificial intelligence system. Earlier reports said its use helps reduce the expenditure of expensive MANPADS missiles when destroying Ukrainian drones.