Russia is now training its troops to launch first-person view (FPV) drones from helicopters to counter Ukraine’s uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), commonly known as sea drones. A new video posted on the Russian Tactical_13 Telegram channel reveals this technique in action, marking the first time we’ve seen this approach from the Russians.

In the video, one soldier puts on FPV goggles while another releases the drone from the helicopter over the water. The drone is seen flying low, but there are no sea drones in sight at that moment.

Using helicopters to launch FPV drones makes a lot of sense because it greatly increases the range and flexibility of these drones. Typically, FPV drones can fly only about a dozen miles, and even less in real combat situations because they need a constant connection with their operator. This connection can be interrupted by obstacles like mountains or buildings. But by using helicopters or other aircraft to launch and control these drones, the si...