New War Tactic: Operation False Target
A state-of-the-art factory in Russia has developed a cunning strategy to target Ukraine using a small number of lethal thermobaric drones concealed among swarms of decoy drones. Dubbed “Operation False Target,” this approach aims to force Ukraine to deplete its limited resources in order to protect lives and crucial infrastructure. Sources familiar with the production process in Russia, as well as a Ukrainian electronics expert, reveal that distinguishing between dangerous drones and harmless decoys has become nearly impossible for radar, sharpshooters, and electronics specialists alike.
The Impact of Decoys on Drone Warfare
According to reports, more than half of the drones now deployed against Ukraine are unarmed decoys, with some estimates suggesting that decoys account for up to 75% of the latest drones manufactured in Russia’s Alabuga Special Economic Zone. This facility not only produces these decoys but also creates a deadly version of the Shahed unmanned aerial vehicle, equipped with thermobaric warheads. Throughout early November, the Kyiv region experienced 20 hours under air raid alert, as Russian forces ramped up their drone attacks, launching approximately 1,889 drones in October alone—a staggering 80% increase from August.
Rising Numbers of Deadly UAVs
Although the majority of drones are intercepted, Ukrainian forces still struggle to combat the sheer volume of attacks. Less than 6% of drones have targeted specific objectives effectively, but the overwhelming numbers ensure that some drones slip through the defenses daily, leading to significant casualties and destruction. Videos released on social media provide a chilling view of the aftermath of a thermobaric drone strike on Odesa, underscoring the relentless threat these drones pose to civilian centers.
Alabuga’s Transformation into a War Machine
The Alabuga Industrial Zone, once aimed at attracting businesses and investment, has shifted its focus toward military drone production since the onset of the Ukraine invasion. Satellite images reveal an expansion of its facilities and repurposing of existing structures to accommodate drone manufacturing. Experts assert that the site’s primary function has morphed into serving the Russian Ministry of Defence, as illustrated by recent investigations into labor conditions at the plant where foreign workers have reported deceptive recruitment practices.
The Terrifying Capabilities of Thermobarics
The production of thermobaric drones peaked in early 2023, with the facility generating around 40 unarmed drones and ten armed ones daily. These thermobarics, notorious for their devastating impact on structures and individuals, create intense heat and pressure that can penetrate solid walls and eliminate oxygen in their vicinity. The use of metal ball bearings further amplifies the destruction upon impact. An unarmed drone’s production cost is significantly lower than that of its armed counterpart, making this strategy economically beneficial for Russia while imposing a demoralizing threat on Ukrainian forces determined to defend their territory.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Irish Examiner
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