The Stunt Pilot Hunting Russian Drones
Timur Fatkullin, a Ukrainian pilot, is using his aerobatic skills to combat Russian drone attacks. After a successful career in aerobatics, he has shifted his focus to defending his country amidst the ongoing war. His innovative stunts and collaborations with other extreme athletes highlight his commitment to protecting his fellow citizens.
- ▪Timur Fatkullin won a gold medal at the World Intermediate Aerobatics Championship in 2019.
- ▪He has transitioned from aerobatics competitions to using his skills in the fight against Russian drones.
- ▪Fatkullin collaborates with other extreme athletes, including motorcyclist Serhii Gusak, to create daring stunts.
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Play/Pause ButtonPauseLetter from KyivThe Stunt Pilot Hunting Russian DronesA Ukrainian flying ace is leveraging his aerobatics skills to protect his countrymen from nightly attacks.By Ed CaesarMay 25, 2026Thermal-imaging video of a Russian drone being shot down.Video courtesy AerotimSave this storySave this storySave this storySave this storyThe most challenging part of an international aerobatics contest is the Free Unknown. Pilots arrive at a competition after having polished sequences of loops, stall turns, and barrel rolls. But for the Free Unknown section they learn which assortment of tricks they must perform only a day in advance.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The New Yorker.
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