According to Vladimir Popov, an Honored Military Pilot and Major General of Aviation, Russian forces have begun using new flight routes for Geran drone strikes against targets in Ukraine.

Popov explained that instead of following their usual east-to-west trajectories, Russian UAVs are now performing more complex maneuvers. According to him, the drones can travel along Ukraine’s borders toward the western regions before changing direction and approaching their targets from areas where Ukrainian air defenses are less prepared.

The military expert believes these tactics disrupt Ukrainian air defense operations. As reported by MK.ru, Popov argued that Ukrainian forces generally expect Geran drones to approach from the east, northeast or southeast. By arriving from unexpected directions, the UAVs can catch air defense systems off guard and significantly reduce their effectiveness.

Popov also noted that Geran drones may be used for reconnaissance as well as strikes. During intelligence-gathering missions, the aircraft remain airborne longer and spend more time loitering over designated areas.

According to the general, modern reconnaissance equipment has become considerably smaller and lighter. This allows unmanned aircraft to carry surveillance systems on extended missions covering long distances.