Executive Summary

Russian and Ukrainian forces are increasingly employing sleeper drones—systems designed to remain dormant until remotely activated—along infiltration routes and supply lines. Their presence in rear areas, particularly in the stretch of territory locally referred to as the “grey zone,” is becoming one of the most critical threats to infantry insertion and resupply logistics.

Another consolidating development on the frontline is the standardisation of long-range reconnaissance as a light infantry tactic. Documented reporting during recent offensives in Pokrovsk and Dobropillia further corroborates this pattern, suggesting infiltration groups have become an institutionalised element of the Russian infantry doctrine during the last months. 

Ukrainian and Russian military bodies are also investing in methods to reduce detectability against infrared and thermal imaging systems. Ukrainian brigades began fielding anti-thermal imaging capes in limited capacity, while Russian forces are experimenting with thermal blankets, albeit with mixed effectiveness. Continued adaptation suggests that signature reduction will remain a priority for survivability in drone- and sensor-dominated environments.

Images Sourced From: AlexRubizh