**Ukrainian Forces Down Rare Russian Reconnaissance Drone**
A video shared by the 63rd Separate Mechanized Brigade on January 16 shows what they claim is a rare Russian reconnaissance drone, Merlin-VR, being shot down. The brigade says their anti-aircraft gunners and pilots were responsible for taking out the drone.
According to the brigade’s statement, the drone was a Merlin-VR, which is a rare and advanced Russian model. It has a hybrid engine that makes it hard to detect, can fly for up to 10 hours, and reach altitudes of up to 5 kilometers.
The drone was reportedly shot down by a Ukrainian first-person-view (FPV) drone. The location of the air battle is not specified.
**Ukraine’s Drone Program**
Drones have become crucial in Ukraine’s fight against Russia. They are used for reconnaissance, attack, and other tasks on and off the battlefield.
In December, Ukraine delivered over 200,000 domestically-produced drones to front-line units. This shows the importance of drones in Ukraine’s military strategy.
**Other News**
* The 67th Separate Mechanized Brigade repelled a Russian assault near the village of Zhuravka in Sumy Oblast.
* Advisers to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump are developing sanctions strategies aimed at facilitating a diplomatic resolution to the Russia-Ukraine war.
* The United Kingdom will provide new military aid for Ukraine, including artillery barrels and an air defense system.
**More Developments**
* A fire broke out at a facility in Ukraine after three drones hit it.
* Russia claimed to have damaged ground facilities at one of Ukraine’s largest natural gas storage sites in Lviv Oblast.
* President Volodymyr Zelensky criticized the Slovak government for criticizing military support for Ukraine and getting closer to Russia.
* British Prime Minister Keir Starmer arrived in Kyiv to sign a “100 Year Partnership” treaty with Ukraine.
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