What Are FPV Drones? Ukraine’s Deep Strikes Into Russia Explained
Over 40 Russian aircraft destroyed in one of the deepest attacks since the war began, as Ukraine deploys low-cost FPV drones in high-impact operations.
In one of the most significant escalations since the beginning of the Ukraine-Russia conflict in February 2022, Ukraine launched a drone strike on June 1 that destroyed more than 40 Russian aircraft. The attack, reportedly conducted using First-Person View (FPV) drones, marked the deepest assault on Russian territory to date—reaching areas nearly 4,000 kilometers from the border.
Inside “Operation Spider’s Web”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed in a video address that the mission, codenamed Operation Spider’s Web, was meticulously planned over 18 months. The offensive targeted military installations and involved the deployment of 117 drones. The strike occurred just a day before scheduled peace negotiations between the two nations in Istanbul.
According to multiple sources, including the Associated Press, FPV drones were smuggled into Russia and stored inside mobile wooden structures disguised as houses. Hidden under rooftops, these drones were launched remotely to strike designated targets. The Russian Defence Ministry confirmed attacks across five different locations, including sites in the far east.
What Are FPV Drones?
FPV (First-Person View) drones are remotely operated unmanned aerial vehicles that transmit real-time video from a camera mounted on the drone. This footage can be viewed via goggles, smartphones, or monitors, enabling the operator to maneuver the drone as if onboard.
While often used in civilian applications like videography, FPV drones have also found military applications due to their agility and precision. However, operators can struggle with limited situational awareness, especially in obstructed environments—sometimes necessitating a second observer for navigation assistance.
Why Are They Effective in Warfare?
FPV drones offer a strategic advantage due to their affordability and stealth. A fully equipped FPV drone can cost as little as $500—significantly less than traditional weapons systems. Their small size and ability to fly at low altitudes help them avoid radar detection, making them ideal for deep strikes.
Reuters has identified these drones as some of the most impactful tools in Ukraine’s arsenal, particularly as traditional air operations have become more challenging due to dense anti-aircraft defenses near front lines.
Ukraine’s Drone Strategy
The use of FPV drones is not new for Ukraine. As early as 2023, reports noted the effectiveness of these agile drones in combating Russia’s superior military. Their deployment has become central to Ukraine’s strategy of attrition—leveraging cost-effective technology to wear down a more resource-rich adversary.
Ukraine has significantly ramped up its domestic drone production. NATO sources cited in 2024 stated that over two-thirds of destroyed Russian tanks were hit by FPV drones. In March, Ukrainian drone manufacturer Vyriy Drone delivered a batch of 1,000 locally produced FPV drones. The country is now on track to manufacture over four million drones annually.
Global Context and Supply Challenges
The FPV drone boom highlights broader geopolitical undercurrents. Many drones rely on components sourced from China, including microchips and lithium-ion batteries. China, which dominates global commercial drone production through companies like DJI and CATL, has previously hinted at export restrictions affecting Ukraine.
A report by the Center for Strategic & International Studies noted that DJI holds a 90% share of the U.S. commercial drone market and 80% globally. As warfare evolves, such supply chain dependencies could shape future battlefield capabilities.
