Russian Tanks Rarely Leave Cover Anymore—This One Did, and Ukrainian Drones Found It

Footage of Russian tanks being caught in the open has become increasingly rare as strike drones dominate the battlefield, but operators from Ukraine’s 44th Separate Artillery Brigade recently found one trying to hide in dense vegetation—and destroyed it.

Ukraine’s Operational Command West published footage of the strike on August 9, showing the Russian armored vehicle concealed among trees before Ukrainian DARTS strike drones located and attacked it.

The episode highlights how the proliferation of reconnaissance and strike UAVs has changed armored warfare in Ukraine. Russian forces increasingly avoid moving tanks out of covered positions because vehicles exposed in the open can quickly be detected, tracked, and targeted by drones.

When this tank ventured out and attempted to use vegetation for concealment, however, Ukrainian drone operators still located it.

“There are no invisible targets for the aerial reconnaissance and DARTS strike UAVs of the 44th Separate Artillery Brigade. Especially when it is an enemy tank. The 44th Separate Artillery Brigade operates relentlessly and until the enemy is completely destroyed,” the Ukrainian artillery unit said.

Previously, Ukraine’s Armed Forces broke up one of Russia’s largest recent attempts at a massed tank breakthrough in the Dobropillia direction, destroying nine tanks, two armored vehicles, and three BM-21 Grad rocket launchers.

Support our frontline reporters

We report from the front lines to show the reality of war. Your support helps us stay there and tell the stories that matter.

DONATE NOW