Russia is employing a new tactic to strike Ukrainian energy infrastructure, using small, fiber-optic-guided drones that are particularly difficult to neutralize with electronic jamming systems. According to a Reuters investigation, these devices have been used to attack several electrical substations located several kilometers from the front line.
Reuters was able to verify eight strikes against 330 kV and 110 kV electrical substations. The targeted facilities were located up to 26 kilometers from the combat zones, illustrating the ability of these drones to reach strategic infrastructure far from direct confrontations.
According to the information gathered, the attacks follow a precise modus operandi. A first drone is used to tear through the protective netting installed over sensitive equipment. A second drone then enters the resulting opening to reach ventilation systems or other vulnerable points in the substation.
Unlike traditional drones controlled by radio link, these devices are connected to their operators by a fiber optic cable that is deployed during flight. This technology makes them largely immune to electronic warfare devices designed to jam communications, significantly complicating their interception.
Ukrainian authorities are seeking to adapt their defenses in response to this evolution in Russian tactics. Attacks on energy infrastructure remain a major focus of the conflict, with Moscow regularly attempting to disrupt electricity supplies and essential services in areas controlled by Kyiv.
The increasing use of fiber-optic drones illustrates the rapid evolution of technologies employed on the battlefield in Ukraine. Experts believe this innovation could force Ukrainian forces to develop new protection methods to secure their critical installations.
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