The sudden disruption of Starlink services for Russian troops appears to have significantly hampered their offensive capabilities, leading to a reported halving of assault numbers and forcing soldiers to resort to crowdfunding for basic radio equipment. This stark reliance on advanced technology, now unavailable, paints a picture of a military caught off guard by its own technological dependence. It’s almost ironic, this parallel being drawn between modern Russian forces and the image of African militant groups relying on readily available, albeit less sophisticated, vehicles for their operations. The implication is clear: without the technological crutches they’ve grown accustomed to, their ability to wage war is severely diminished.… Continue reading
It’s a complex situation, isn’t it? The news about Russia using Starlink in strike drones that reached Kyiv, and SpaceX’s subsequent response impacting command systems, has certainly sparked a lot of discussion. It feels like there are layers upon layers to unpack, and the media’s framing of the events can really shift the narrative.
One perspective is that this wasn’t a sudden, bold move by SpaceX, but rather something initiated and pushed for by the Ukrainian side. The implication here is that Elon Musk was aware, for quite some time, that Russian forces were utilizing Starlink for their operations, potentially even to harm Ukrainian civilians.… Continue reading
Ukrainian soldiers are utilizing low-cost netting as a critical defense against Russian drones, covering positions, weaponry, and roadways. This tactic, unfamiliar to the British Army, proved essential in stopping the drones from reaching their targets. Upon learning of the nets, the UK quickly adopted the practice by gathering fishing nets to be used in training. The UK is now incorporating Ukrainian front-line experiences, including advancements in drone warfare, into its training and doctrine, highlighting the mutual learning occurring during the conflict.
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On January 24th, Russian forces allegedly utilized Starlink-guided Shahed attack drones near Kropyvnytskyi, targeting helicopters in the area. Technical analysis suggests the drones employed satellite-based connectivity for control, eliminating the need for traditional relay UAVs. These drones were flown at low altitudes to avoid radar detection, and video footage of the strike was released. If confirmed, this marks a significant advancement in Shahed drone deployment, enabling manual guidance over extended ranges and circumventing electronic-warfare countermeasures.
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According to Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU), long-range strikes over the past year have damaged or destroyed approximately $4 billion worth of Russian air defense systems, including S-300, S-350, and S-400 systems, as well as several others. The SBU stated that these attacks have opened corridors in Russia’s air defense, allowing Ukrainian drones to penetrate deeper into enemy territory, targeting military bases, warehouses, and airfields. The SBU’s claims also include damage to radar reconnaissance and guidance systems, as well as strikes on a large drone factory in Taganrog, where the Molniya drone was produced. Moscow has yet to respond to the SBU’s claims, which are difficult to independently verify.
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The Third Army Corps deployed the DevDroid TW 12.7, an unmanned ground vehicle armed with a .50-calibre machine gun, to hold off Russian advances for 45 days. This remote-controlled vehicle, capable of traversing rugged terrain, was operated from up to 15 miles away and provided relentless firepower, deterring enemy attacks without endangering soldiers. The UGV was crucial in the fight, with Russia unable to detect its presence, highlighting the increasing role of unmanned systems in modern warfare. The NC-13 Strike Company, specializing in UGVs, is expanding its deployment of these systems in both defensive and offensive operations, with other drone versions, including those with grenade launchers, recently approved for frontline use.
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The Myrnohrad defense, as of December 23, 2025, is holding strong. Ukrainian forces are successfully repelling Russian assaults on the approaches to the city. This is the crucial update. Their effectiveness in eliminating Russian assault groups is a key factor in the current stalemate. The information suggests the frontline is within a few kilometers.
The fighting around Pokrovsk is particularly intense, especially since the Ukrainian forces control the northern part of the city. Over the past day, the defenders successfully fought off 58 separate Russian attacks, inflicting significant casualties. The losses are substantial; the military reports 132 Russian troops killed in action within that timeframe.… Continue reading
The 3rd Separate Assault Brigade of Ukrainian Ground Forces deployed an armored ground robot for combat duty, successfully repelling Russian attempts to break through for 45 days. This robot, the DevDroid TW 12.7, allowed operators to engage from a safe location, contributing to zero casualties. Ukrainian forces are increasingly utilizing ground robots for various missions, including reconnaissance, ammunition delivery, and casualty evacuation. Additionally, a ground drone was used to evacuate civilians from a dangerous area in Kharkiv.
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Ukraine’s defense ministry has announced that it has been supplying its troops with approximately 950 interceptor drones daily since early December, a significant production milestone. These interceptors are designed to counter enemy Shahed-type UAVs and are often fast-moving quadcopters. Developed in response to Russia’s increased use of attack drones, these interceptors are designed to destroy aerial systems through direct impact or explosives. With a production goal of 1,000 interceptors a day, the Ukrainian government is working with multiple manufacturers and has placed further orders for next year.
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The Russian Ministry of Defense has not commented on the recent attack on Novorossiysk, though Russian military bloggers suggest the damage was minimal. However, if the SBU’s claims are accurate, the financial implications for Russia could be significant, potentially costing hundreds of millions of dollars. This attack is part of Ukraine’s ongoing deep-strike campaign against Russian military and energy targets. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of maintaining Ukraine’s ability to defend itself as leverage in potential negotiations.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker