In the face of Russia’s relentless drone warfare, Ukrainian troops have turned to an unlikely defense mechanism: fishing nets. These simple, yet effective nets have become a crucial component of Ukraine‘s defense strategy, particularly in the embattled town of Kostiantynivka. Strung up on poles along the roadside, the nets provide cover for Ukrainian troops from Russian drones circulating deep inside their territory, catching tiny explosive devices in their tough string.
The town of Kostiantynivka is a critical frontline location, where Ukrainian forces are increasingly at risk of encirclement by a Russian summer offensive. Despite being vastly outnumbered, Ukrainian troops are holding their ground, thanks in part to the fishing nets. A Ukrainian commander defending the area revealed that his unit had not received new personnel in eight months and was only resupplying frontline positions with drones, as vehicles couldn’t reach the trenches.
Locals have adapted to the new reality, passing through gaps in the nets to go about their daily lives. However, Russian drone operators have found ways to exploit these gaps, using their drones to strike Ukrainian military vehicles. In one instance, a drone strike on a Ukrainian SUV was captured on video, with another drone filming the impact from a nearby location.
The use of fishing nets as a defense mechanism is a testament to the resourcefulness of Ukrainian troops. However, it also highlights the challenges Kyiv faces in responding to Russia’s summer offensive. With a shortage of personnel and equipment, Ukrainian forces are struggling to keep pace with Russia’s advances.
As the conflict rages on, civilians are bearing the brunt of the violence. Four civilians have been killed and 31 injured in the past week due to Russian strikes, according to Kostiantynivka city officials. The town’s central market remains a hub of activity, with locals gathering food despite the risk of drone and artillery attacks.
Tatiana, a resident of Kostiantynivka, described the situation as “heavy, really heavy.” “Nobody on the street,” she said. “I have nowhere else to go.” The town’s streets are peppered with cars struck by Russian drones, a grim reminder of the dangers faced by civilians.
The war in Ukraine has brought about a new era of drone warfare, where control of the skies takes place underground. Vasyl, a local commander, monitors a bank of screens in his basement, tracking Russian drone movements. His unit has not received new personnel in months, and he laments the lack of communication from the front lines.
“We have a critical shortage of personnel,” Vasyl said. “No one wants to fight. The war is over (for them). The old personnel are left, they are tired and want to be replaced, but no one is replacing them.” The situation is dire, and Vasyl’s words convey the exhaustion and frustration felt by Ukrainian troops.
The use of fishing nets as a defense mechanism is a stopgap measure, but it highlights the need for more innovative solutions. As the conflict continues, it is clear that the nature of warfare is changing. Drones are playing an increasingly important role, and armies must adapt to this new reality.
In the long run, forcing Ukrainians to expend more kamikaze drones per target may prove to be a good investment for Russia. Meanwhile, Ukraine is looking for alternative solutions to protect its troops. Operation “Web,” led by philanthropist Oleg Krot and his NGO “Techiia Foundation,” has delivered 500 tons of fishing nets to Ukraine. These nets will provide a vital layer of protection for Ukrainian soldiers, helping to camouflage equipment and counter enemy drones.