Why drones are so valuable in the field

UFF asked an experienced combat drone operator about drone-related challenges: the main problem is that they break quickly, and repairs can take a long time and be expensive. Consequently, Ukrainians have found a way to repurpose broken drones: cannibalizing parts to repair or even make wholly new drones.

“We had to somehow solve the problem on our own, so we started assembling one working drone from two broken drones”, says one of the members of the 112th Separate Brigade of the Territorial Defense of Ukraine.

“We went through each detail, checked that all contacts are working. Captured drones are processed in the same way. It is much more efficient than waiting months for help. We even began to reassure ourselves that it is cheaper and of better quality to learn to assemble drones with our own hands, so we understand exactly how they work. Moreover, our newly developed skills make it possible to repair DIY drones right in the field.”

But why are drones so valuable for defenders? Can they be replaced by something else?

“For Ukraine, firstly, it’s a financial question: one base drone costs approximately $250, plus additional equipment, such as sensors and remote controls. With a drone, you operate it at a safe distance from the enemy and conduct reconnaissance of the area. A low-cost solution to thorough situational awareness.

But the most significant reason is that drones save lives. Now you can see drones clearing the area when troops withdraw, delivering critical medical supplies and evacuating the wounded from the battlefield.

Moreover, a drone can replace a person – mitigating need for manned outposts or patrols subject to ambush, artillery, landmines or other risks on the battlefield.

And the Ukrainian drone manufacturing sector is currently experiencing a boom, with new quadcopters being developed that have no counterparts in the world. We are forced to enhance our defense capabilities every day because, unfortunately, no one else besides Ukrainians is interested in this.”

When UFF asks what the defenders need, they always say, “Drones, specifically Mavics.” And why Mavics are the most requested, even if there may be newer, more technologically advanced models?

“Because Mavics are multipurpose drones. They can fly day and night. A significant plus is that they consume batteries from older models, of which we have already accumulated quite a lot, so they can stay in the air longer.

With the correct use of additional antennas and various “chips”, these drones are now part of our operations, and alternatives with add-ons are quite expensive.

Now there are new drones that are more interesting than the DJI Mavic 3T. But they are much more expensive, and batteries from old drones are not suitable for them, so most still choose the DJI Mavic 3T from among all possible alternatives. And our supply system does  not provide drones actively: we rely on volunteer donor organizations to keep us supplied.”

Ukrainian Freedom Fund is one fund among others that continues to respond to the request for drones.

As of today, UFF has already delivered over 200 drones used for humanitarian purposes. These unmanned aerial vehicles assist in saving lives by performing various tasks.

UAVs losses are not uncommon, but despite this, UFF along with other volunteer groups continues to do everything possible to provide Ukrainian defenders with these essential technological tools.

Stand with Ukraine!