Russians on the front line set up mannequins to deceive Ukrainian FPV drones.

According to The Telegraph, Russian troops are using mannequins and decoys on the frontline to mislead Ukrainian FPV drones and provoke them into attacks that yield no results. The military employs highly realistic mannequins, sometimes with weapons and missile systems. The publication suggests that this is done to divert drone attention from real targets. Expert Keir Giles notes that such decoys highlight the «trend of personalizing warfare» as drones can target individuals.

The old military tactic of using mannequins and decoys to disguise equipment is being refined with the development of technology. In 2024, drone production in Ukraine increased tenfold compared to 2023, with a focus on enhancing efficiency and employing advanced technologies. Ukrainian «dragon drones» have stunned the occupiers by drenching their positions with a hot mixture of aluminum powder and iron or nickel oxide, which burns at high temperatures.

Ukrainian drones and unmanned aerial vehicles also attack Russian refineries, military facilities, and depots, bringing part of the war onto enemy territory.