In a covert location in Ukraine, military drone instructor known by the call sign DC is training the next generation of drone pilots to support the country’s defense against Russian aggression. Inside a disused warehouse, DC showcased a makeshift practice course for students learning to navigate First-Person-View (FPV) drones. These devices have become vital in the ongoing conflict that escalated after Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
The trainees at the Killhouse Academy must master drone operation in both simulated environments and real-life scenarios. DC explained the challenges of piloting these small yet powerful drones, emphasizing the need for calm under pressure. “In the battlefield, all you have to do is travel the biggest distance possible and fly, with such bad signal that your eyes will bleed,” he said, demonstrating the drone’s capabilities.
Both civilians and military personnel are instructed in how to operate FPV drones effectively, using them as precision weapons. DC highlighted the importance of patience and strategy. “You cannot rush to a target like a bull. You must think, watch, and detect your target,” he stated. This mental discipline is crucial, as FPV drones represent a significant shift in modern warfare tactics.
When equipped with explosive charges, these drones can be remotely guided to distant targets using live camera feeds. DC noted that shifting to unmanned systems is essential for saving lives and resources. “To save lives, to save money and time, you have to become unmanned,” he remarked, reflecting on the ongoing evolution of warfare.
The impact of drones on military operations has drawn attention from the U.S. military. In June 2023, President Trump signed the “Unleashing American Drone Dominance” executive order, aimed at boosting domestic production of affordable drones. The Pentagon plans to acquire 200,000 drones with lethal capabilities by 2027, as part of its Drone Dominance Program.
Drones have become a central element in the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, contributing to approximately 80% of military casualties, according to various estimates. This technology has transformed combat dynamics, providing Ukraine with a tactical advantage against Russian forces, which have a larger troop presence.
DC views the training he provides as crucial in this ongoing arms race. “If you want to survive, you will find the best solution,” he stated, acknowledging the challenges posed by Russian drone operators. He admitted uncertainty about how many enemy soldiers he has encountered but remains focused on equipping his students to counter such threats.
“Only those who adapt survive,” DC concluded, emphasizing the relentless competition between Ukrainian and Russian forces to gain the upper hand in drone warfare. As training continues in the shadows of war, these pilots are preparing to play a pivotal role in Ukraine’s defense strategy.
