UKRAINE, VOVCHANSK, Feb. 5 — Ukrainian forces use modern air reconnaissance equipment to prevent Russian attempts to hide in an open area near Vovchansk, north of Kharkiv oblast, said the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine.

“(Russian) soldiers can walk across the field. Then he hears a drone flying overhead. He simply sits down, covering himself with this coat. Then the drone attacks, and he doesn’t go anymore,” said the border guard with the callsign Den.

Such behaviour isn’t effective to hide from experienced drone operators, said Den. Aerial reconnaissance provides a full picture of the situation — silhouettes, movements, and any notable signs allow operators to identify targets and follow them in real time.

In such situations, Russians use special coats with minimal ballistic protection, added Den.

According to the bodyguard, if the drone falls within a half meter to a meter of a Russian, such a coat will not help, and the person will be hit by debris.

“We can see them (Russians) from a kilometre. They are especially visible during such cold weather. And also at night, when they are moving,” said Den.

Vovchansk, a city north of the Kharkiv oblast, was one of the main targets of a Russian offensive in May 2024. Currently, the city is completely destroyed, and combat clashes are still ongoing there.

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