Ukrainian 'Hornet' Drones Target Russian Equipment Near Pokrovsk: How Mid-Range Strikes Are Changing the Battlefield.

Ukrainian Drone Operations on the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad Front

According to TSN.ua: In the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad sector, Ukrainian 'Hornet' drones from the National Guard's 20th Brigade are conducting intensive mid-range operations, striking enemy equipment and supply lines. The constant flow of drones from both sides highlights the extreme tension along this frontline, with no letup in aerial activity.

The 'Liubart' strike wing crew, part of the 20th Brigade, carries out missions up to 50 kilometers beyond the contact line. During these operations, Russian occupiers near Pokrovsk have suffered heavy losses, including dozens of vehicles destroyed. Key targets for the 'Hornets' include:

• trucks;
• tractors;
• artillery systems;
• other equipment the enemy might use.

The commander of the 'Liubart' strike drone crew stated: 'The drone flow is constant—both ours and the enemy's. We are working, and so are they. There is almost never a moment of calm.'

Pilot 'Shelby' of the strike drone unit commented: 'If there's target illumination, we go after artillery pieces, MLRS, and armored vehicles. Today, I hit an artillery gun directly. A solid hit!'

Among the targets the 'Hornets' focus on are:

• trucks and 'loaves' (vans) carrying ammunition;
• tractors and armored vehicles (such as MT-LBs and BMPs);
• artillery systems and multiple rocket launchers;
• ammunition depots and checkpoints deep in the rear.

According to military personnel, before each mission, the drone aircraft crew goes through several preparatory steps: checking the initiation board, removing the safety pin, arming the bomb, and running a countdown.

The Growing Role of Drones in Modern Combat

Overall, the work of Ukrainian 'Hornet' drones on the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad front continues to play a critical role in destroying enemy equipment and supporting frontline operations.

The situation at the front remains highly intense, and the heavy reliance on drones reflects evolving tactics on both sides. This high operational tempo, especially the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, shows how technology is becoming increasingly central to modern warfare, reshaping the nature of combat. Future actions in this sector could significantly influence the broader course of the conflict.