Captured Ukrainian Baba Yagas Are Becoming Russia’s Drone Of Choice
Captured Ukrainian Baba Yaga drones are being repurposed by Russian forces as they struggle to produce their own heavy bomber drones. These drones, originally used by Ukraine for nighttime attacks, are now being repaired and utilized by Russia. The challenges in developing comparable drone technology have led to this shift in strategy.
- ▪Ukrainian Baba Yaga drones are known for their devastating nighttime attacks and can carry payloads of about 15 kilograms over distances of up to 20 kilometers.
- ▪Russia has been capturing and repurposing these drones due to its difficulties in producing similar heavy bomber drones at scale.
- ▪The challenges in developing heavy multirotor drones include maintaining stability, range, and endurance under combat conditions.
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BusinessAerospace & DefenseCaptured Ukrainian Baba Yagas Are Becoming Russia’s Drone Of ChoiceByVikram Mittal,Contributor.Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Vikram Mittal is a contributor who covers aerospace and defense.Follow AuthorMay 23, 2026, 06:14am EDT--:-- / --:--This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more.Various images posted on social media showing Ukrainian Baba Yaga drones that have been captured by Russian forces.Social Media CaptureOver the course of the war, Ukraine’s heavy bomber drones have become so feared for their devastating nighttime attacks that Russian soldiers nicknamed them “Baba Yaga,” after the Slavic witch said to terrorize victims in the dark.
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