Russian air defense troops destroyed a low-flying Ukrainian Mrak jet-powered drone near Kharkov using twin Kalashnikov machine guns, according to a mobile fire team commander from the 22nd Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment of Russia’s Northern Group of Forces.

The commander, known by the call sign Thirteenth, told RIA Novosti that the fixed-wing UAV was intercepted during a combat patrol protecting rear areas of the 11th Army Corps.

The Russian unit used a twin Kalashnikov machine gun mount capable of providing 360-degree fire to bring down the jet-powered aircraft.

Thirteenth explained that his team regularly intercepts a wide range of Ukrainian drones, including both high-altitude and low-flying aircraft powered by gasoline engines or jet propulsion systems.

The methods used to detect and engage these targets depend on the time of day. During daylight hours, Russian troops primarily rely on visual observation to locate incoming drones. At night, they use thermal imaging equipment and night vision devices.

However, the commander noted that sophisticated optical equipment is not always necessary after dark. When soldiers establish direct visual contact with an approaching UAV, they can engage it without relying on thermal imaging guidance, using concentrated bursts of tracer ammunition.

The mobile fire team continues its air defense operations in the area of the Volchansk pocket, protecting Russian rear positions against Ukrainian drone attacks.

According to Thirteenth, the unit has destroyed hundreds of enemy UAVs, including both reconnaissance and attack drones, while carrying out its combat duties.