Russia Uses Fiber-Optic Drones to Strike Ukraine's Energy Grid

Russia is targeting high-voltage power substations in Ukraine's northern Sumy region with FPV drones controlled via fiber-optic cables. The tactic was identified through open-source analysis verified by the UK-based Centre for Information Resilience (CIR) and Reuters.

To protect its electricity grid, Ukraine has covered transformers with concrete shelters and protective netting and deployed electronic warfare systems. However, the wired drones are immune to radio jamming.

According to investigators, the attacks are carried out in pairs. The first drone breaches the protective netting, allowing the second to reach the autotransformer through ventilation openings. Destroying the equipment – valued at about $3.5m – disables the entire substation. CIR has verified at least eight such attacks. With each drone costing only around $2,000, the tactic is highly cost-effective.

The attacks have been carried out up to 26 km from the front line, highlighting the growing range of fiber-optic drones. Analysts warn that Russia is attempting to isolate Ukrainian regions from the national power grid and leave them without electricity. The situation in the Sumy region has deteriorated significantly since June.

(Reuters, Max)