Unmanned system units of National Guard destroy enemy equipment worth several billion dollars since 2022 – Pivnenko

Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion, unmanned system units of the National Guard of Ukraine have destroyed enemy equipment worth several billion dollars, in particular, almost 1,500 tanks and about 2,500 armored combat vehicles, commander of the National Guard Oleksandr Pivnenko said.

"Since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, our unmanned systems units have destroyed enemy equipment worth several billion dollars. This includes 1,454 tanks, 2,496 armored personnel carriers, 4,064 artillery systems, 58 air defense units, and much more," Pivnenko said in an exclusive interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

The National Guard has also created a Center for the Control and Analysis of the Use of Unmanned Systems. "We have written our own software, are working with those introduced in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and are integrating," the commander added.

He pointed out that a very effective direction is the shooting down of Russian reconnaissance drones by FPV drones. Over three months, 270 enemy drones have been shot down (Orlan, Zala, Supercam, etc.). "There are additional payments for shooting down - our fighters are actively hunting for them," said Pivnenko.

The brigadier general emphasized that unmanned systems are of great importance, since if the brigades are sufficiently equipped with UAV crews, the enemy does not reach the position.

"And this is our main goal. On average, a good figure for a brigade is about 60 UAV crews, 85-90 is already a high level of provision with unmanned systems and crews. Separate units engaged in the manufacture and testing of drones were created even before I took office," he noted.

Pivnenko noted that he, in turn, initiated the creation of the Omega Wings and Typhoon units, which operate in key areas.

"For example, there is a serious offensive in the Torets direction, I transfer these crews there, and they work together with the brigade commander. The units will have operational subordination and act additionally," he explained.

The Separate Artillery Brigade is also working to reinforce "hot" areas, Pivnenko pointed out.