Ukraine using drones loaded with malware to disrupt Russian operations

Ukraine's drone campaign against Russia is entering a new phase, one that's not just airborne

but digital. Ukrainian forces are reportedly embedding malware into their drones, a tactic aimed at disrupting Russian efforts to reverse engineer and reuse captured equipment

Forbes reports the malware can damage hardware, block reprogramming, and even track new operators if reused by Russian forces. The malware appears designed

to prevent Russian forces from repurposing Ukrainian drones, a tactic both sides rely on

as resources grow scarce. In some cases, the code disables USB ports or prevents a hard drive from

being re-imaged. In others, it may allow Ukrainian forces to hijack a repurposed drone or reveal its

operator's location. Embedding malware into drones may also help Ukraine extend the operational

lifespan of its systems before they become obsolete under Russian counter tactics With Russia bolstering its cybersecurity Ukraine may respond with more advanced malware designed to penetrate deeper into battlefield systems Future malware variants could potentially target battlefield networks or create remote access points for intelligence gathering

ysis say this could spark a new cycle of escalation as both countries race to outpace each other in drone and cyber capabilities

The strategy aligned with Ukraine's broader effort to disrupt Russian operations across multiple domains

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently confirmed Ukrainian forces now operate inside Russia's Belgorod region

saying the incursion is aimed at easing pressure on border areas in eastern Ukraine and forcing Moscow to divert troops

While Ukraine has not shared details about the scale of its Belgorod operations

operations. Zelensky praised units stationed there and said military efforts are ongoing

in Russia's neighboring Kurs region as well. For more of our Unbiased Straight Fact reporting

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