Russia Installs Anti-Drone Nets to Protect Key Infrastructure

Russia has begun installing anti-drone nets over critical infrastructure in Moscow. This move comes in response to a series of drone attacks that have penetrated deep into Russian territory. The photo shows a construction site with large metal poles and a mesh canopy, designed to thwart drone incursions.

Growing Threat from Drone Attacks

In recent months, Russia has faced numerous drone attacks, many targeting areas around Moscow. Though Ukraine hasn’t officially claimed responsibility, Russia has accused Ukraine of these aggressive acts amidst the ongoing conflict.

Key Incidents of Drone Attacks

• August 30, 2023: Drones struck an airport in Pskov, igniting a massive fire and damaging four Il-76 military transport planes. The same day, drones also targeted several other Russian regions, including areas near Moscow.
• Skyscraper and Expo Centre in Moscow: These were hit by drones, causing flights to be diverted from Vnukovo International Airport following attacks on July 4, July 30, and August 1.
• August 23, 2023: A drone attack killed three in the Belgorod region. Another drone hit a building under construction in central Moscow on the same day.
• Modern Skyscraper Complex: This location in Moscow was targeted three times within a month. On August 26, 2023, drone incidents led to the temporary shutdown of three Moscow-area airports.
• Late November 2023: Russia claims to have thwarted over 20 Ukrainian drone attacks, destroying 24 drones over Moscow, Tula, Kaluga, Bryansk, and Smolensk in one day. A drone crash in Tula injured one person.
• May 27, 2024: Russian air defense units downed a drone outside Moscow. The drone fragments landed on a private house in Balashikha, but no injuries were reported.

Experts believe these drone attacks, likely involving Ukrainian-made drones with a range of up to 500 km, allow Ukraine to stretch Russian air defenses and strike deep within Russia cost-effectively.

Why Anti-Drone Nets?

The installation of anti-drone nets over critical facilities like gas terminals in Moscow highlights Russia’s efforts to counter these persistent threats. The mesh canopy, supported by metal poles and cables, aims to provide a physical barrier against drones, protecting vital infrastructure.

DroneXL’s Take

The use of anti-drone nets is a significant development in the evolving warfare landscape. It showcases how nations are adapting to the rising threat of drone technology. For the drone industry, this underscores the dual-use nature of drones – while they can be used for beneficial purposes, they also pose new security challenges. As drone technology continues to advance, so will the methods to counteract potential threats. This development in Russia might inspire similar measures globally, highlighting the importance of robust drone defense mechanisms.

Photo courtesy of the Ukrainian Front / X