Russia is trying to improve Shahed-type attack drones - British intelligence

The UK Ministry of Defence reports.

It is noted that at the end of November 2023, a downed UAV was discovered that was equipped with a Ukrainian SIM card and a 4G modem. This is likely a Russian improvised modification to improve real-time targeting using cell towers to reduce dependence on satellite navigation. There is a realistic possibility that Russia is also trying to weaken Ukrainian electronic warfare measures. In addition, some other Russian-made attack drones have been painted black, making them harder to detect visually at night.

“Russia is increasingly employing OWA UAVs in large raids in an attempt to overwhelm Ukrainian air defences. However, Ukraine continues to successfully neutralise the majority of incoming weapons,” the intelligence added.

• A SIM card of a Ukrainian operator was found in one of the Shaheds launched by Russia in Ukraine: it is currently being investigated by experts.