Ukraine Launches “Drone Line” to Revolutionize Battlefield Tactics

Drones have become a game-changer in Russia’s war against Ukraine, allowing Ukrainian forces to defend their borders more efficiently and strike Russian targets where they least expect it. Since February 2024, no other nation has deployed drones as effectively.  Now, this expertise is set to be scaled up.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy launched a new military initiative—the “Drone Line”—bringing together the most battle-proven UAV units. These include:

• 20th Separate Regiment “K-2”

• 429th Regiment “Achilles”

• 427th Regiment “Raroh”

• 414th Independent Brigade “Birds of Magyar”

• “Phoenix” Regiment of the “Revenge” Brigade within the State Border Guard Service

What are their objectives?

Infantry protection and kill zones

The Drone Line has several clear objectives:

• Establish a kill zone 10-15 kilometers deep, where enemy forces cannot advance without suffering losses.

• Provide infantry with constant aerial support and cover during operations.

• Destroy enemy targets before they reach Ukrainian positions.

Commanders expect these tactics to deliver the following effects:

• Enhanced control over larger sections of the front line through kill zones.

• Improved protection and support for infantry during operations.

• Safer enemy surveillance through remote monitoring of enemy movements.

• Rapid response to sudden fire missions.

• Increased strike volume and accuracy against enemy forces approaching the frontline.

While this article was being prepared, drones once again demonstrated their effectiveness. At this very moment, Russian forces are suffering heavy losses in the Pokrovsk sector, enabling Ukraine’s Armed Forces to reclaim key positions. Intense drone fire has disrupted Russian supply lines, preventing the safe delivery of ammunition and infantry reinforcements. As a result, both the intensity and frequency of Russian attacks have decreased. This serves as a vivid example of a kill zone in action—delivering preemptive strikes that decimate enemy troops before they can reach Ukrainian defenses.

The Drone Line is also designed to preserve infantry strength. Ukraine has long championed the principle that machines should do the fighting to save human lives. In 2024, Ukraine produced 1.4 million drones, and with support from Western partners, that number could grow to 4 million units annually. Deploying drones in combat preserves infantry lives at the front, while aerial dominance enables the destruction of both enemy soldiers and equipment. The Drone Line is expected to significantly increase Russian losses.

Scaling up

Another goal of the Drone Line initiative is to scale up existing capabilities. The unit has brought together the most powerful and effective teams led by experienced combat commanders. Rather than creating new structures, the focus will be on expanding the capabilities of the existing groups mentioned above.

Recruitment is open to all: UAV operators, drivers, drone repair specialists, and sappers. There is a particular demand for electronic warfare (EW) specialists, whose expertise is critical in countering Russian drones and EW systems.

The Drone Line has already begun recruiting both civilians and soldiers. Within the first few weeks, thousands of applications were received. For example, the “K-2” unit alone received nearly 7,000 applications in a short time.

With proven combat experience and demonstrated effectiveness, Ukraine aims to scale up these capabilities, providing more opportunities for existing teams that know precisely how to operate, fight, lead various units, and build efficient systems. This approach will help achieve the objectives outlined above, ultimately strengthening Ukraine’s defense while preserving soldiers’ lives.