Ukrainian forces have successfully carried out a bold and damaging operation in Russia’s Kursk region. Over a span of just 12 hours, three high-value Russian air defense systems were struck by Ukrainian unmanned units.
Ukrainian drones strike deep into Russian territory targeting Buk systems
This operation took place thanks to the coordinated efforts of the 413th “Raid” Unmanned Systems Battalion and the “Dzhmil” UAV unit from the 78th Air Assault Regiment.
These strikes targeted the powerful and expensive Buk surface-to-air missile systems. The Buk is an important part of Russia’s defense network, built to detect and destroy enemy aircraft. The attacks were executed with FPV (First-Person View) drones. These are small, fast drones controlled remotely by Ukrainian operators, often used for pinpoint strikes.
The Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces made the announcement through their Telegram channel, and it was later reported by Ukrinform. According to the report, the drones hit a total of three Buk launchers — one Buk-M2 and two Buk-M3 models. All of them were located within the Kursk region of western Russia.
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Camouflaged Missile Launcher Destroyed in the Forest
The first strike by the Ukrainian drone teams hit a Buk-M2 missile launcher. The Russian military had hidden this launcher in a forested area to keep it safe from attacks. However, Ukrainian drone operators managed to locate it using advanced surveillance techniques.
The strike on the Buk-M2 was very precise. The drone hit the system directly, which caused a chain reaction. The launcher, along with the missiles it carried, exploded upon impact. The explosion led to the complete destruction of the launcher unit. Video footage reportedly shows flames and smoke rising from the forest area after the successful strike.
The Buk-M2 system is part of the earlier generation of the Buk family. Even though it’s not the latest version, it is still considered a serious threat. It is used to detect, track, and shoot down planes, helicopters, and drones at long distances. Taking out one of these units means weakening Russia’s ability to defend its airspace.
Advanced Radars Damaged on Two Buk-M3 Systems
Shortly after the first strike, Ukrainian forces went after two more targets — this time Buk-M3 missile systems. These are upgraded versions and are considered some of the most advanced air defense tools in the Russian arsenal. Each unit is mobile and carries new types of missiles with better tracking and accuracy.
Using more FPV drones, Ukrainian drone operators hit both Buk-M3 launchers. Although the full launchers were not destroyed like the Buk-M2, the radars on both Buk-M3 units were badly damaged. The radar is a key part of the system. It helps the launcher spot enemy aircraft and guide the missiles toward their targets.
By damaging the radars, Ukrainian forces made these powerful systems nearly useless. Without the ability to detect and lock onto airborne threats, the launchers can no longer function properly. This was a major setback for Russia’s air defense in the region.
Each system costs around $45 million. The missiles it carries can hit aircraft flying as high as 35 kilometers and can track targets up to 70 kilometers away. Because of its price and capability, losing even one of these units is a big blow. Striking two in one day is even more significant.
This successful operation inside Russian territory shows the growing skills of Ukraine’s drone forces. It also highlights how modern drone warfare is changing the way battles are fought. Without putting any pilots or soldiers in danger, Ukrainian forces managed to take out or damage systems worth tens of millions of dollars.
The attack also sends a strong message. Even heavily defended areas deep inside Russia are not safe from Ukrainian surveillance and precision drone strikes. The damage to the systems is not just about money — it also reduces Russia’s ability to protect its skies from future aerial threats.
In total, within just half a day, Ukrainian forces managed to strike three major Russian air defense systems in the Kursk region. One Buk-M2 launcher was completely destroyed, while two Buk-M3 launchers were damaged, especially their radar components. These strikes were carried out using FPV drones operated by skilled Ukrainian units, and they dealt a serious blow to Russia’s air defense network near the border.
