Russian drone operators are using tracks left by Ukrainian ground robots to locate supply depots and military positions in the Kharkov region. By following wheel and tread marks, they can trace the vehicles back to their departure points and identify targets for subsequent strikes. The tactic was described to RIA Novosti by a strike UAV platoon commander from Russia’s Sever group of forces, known by the call sign Teply.

According to the officer, Ukrainian troops rely on unmanned ground vehicles to deliver supplies to positions that are difficult to reach through conventional means. When these machines cross exposed terrain, Russian reconnaissance and attack drone crews detect and destroy them.

However, the loss of a robotic vehicle can also expose other Ukrainian military assets. After striking a ground robot, Russian operators examine the tracks it has left behind to determine where its journey began. This allows them to identify storage facilities and the positions of units awaiting the deliveries. The newly located sites can then be targeted in further attacks.

Teply reported that unmanned systems units of the 6th Guards Combined Arms Army destroyed 10 Ukrainian ground robotic platforms in the Kharkov region over the past week. He stressed that eliminating these vehicles disrupts Ukrainian supply operations and reduces the combat effectiveness of the affected forces.