**Ukrainian Drones Used in Successful Operation Against Russian Bomber Bases**
A recent report by Defense Express has identified Ukrainian-made Osa (“Wasp”) FPV drones produced by First Contact as the likely unmanned aircraft used in the Security Service of Ukraine’s (SBU) highly successful Spiderweb operation targeting Russian strategic bombers on their home bases.
The SBU has assessed the damage inflicted by the Pavutyna (“Spiderweb”) operation, which struck Russian bomber airbases including Olenya and Belaya thousands of kilometers away from Ukraine, as amounting to $7 billion. A total of 117 FPV drones were used in the strikes, which reportedly disabled 34% of Russia’s air-launched cruise missile carriers, including Tu-95MS, Tu-160, Tu-22M3 and Tu-142.
**Technical Analysis Supports Drone Identification**
According to Defense Express, visual and technical analysis of the drones used in the Spiderweb operation suggests that they were Osa FPV drones produced by First Contact. The manufacturer’s specifications show that the Osa drone is capable of carrying up to 3.3 kg of payload, remaining airborne for 15 minutes, and reaching speeds of up to 42 m/s (approximately 150 km/h). These capabilities allow it to maintain stability and control even in stormy conditions — key requirements for a strike operation executed deep within Russian territory.
**Potential Use of AI for Targeting**
Defense Express also cites indications that the drones involved in the Spiderweb operation may have utilized artificial intelligence to locate, identify, and target vulnerable areas on enemy aircraft. First Contact, the manufacturer of the Osa drone, was already developing and testing AI-enabled drones as of January 2024, suggesting the firm likely had deployable systems by the time of the attack.
**Independent Sources Reinforce Drone Identification**
In addition to the visual and technical analysis, Defense Express consulted internal sources familiar with the operation. These sources confirmed the high likelihood that the Osa drones produced by First Contact were the exact type used in the deep-strike mission targeting strategic bomber bases.
The successful use of Ukrainian-made drones against Russian bomber bases is a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. It highlights the growing capabilities of Ukrainian military technology and the potential for innovative solutions to counter Russian aggression.
**Read More**
To learn more about the Osa drone and its specifications, click on the link below:
