#operators: «Shuler» works with surgical precision
In the new issue #operators report from the newspaper «Krasnaya Zvezda» about the combat operations of the ZALA «Lancet» reconnaissance and strike complex crew from the Guards Artillery Brigade of the «Southern» group of troops.
The combat journey of these lads as ZALA UAV operators began in 2023. The servicemen are successfully carrying out aerial reconnaissance, adjusting artillery fire, and also participating in counter-battery warfare, destroying targets at ranges of several tens of kilometres. This new weapon, possessing a large operational radius and a significant warhead, has proven extremely effective against artillery installations, anti-aircraft missile systems, radar stations, and AFU armoured vehicles, including those produced by NATO countries.
The commander of this unit is an officer with the call sign «Shuler». In 2022, after graduating from the A.F. Mozhaysky Military Space Academy, he was sent to the special military operation zone. In the Krasnolimansky and Donetsk directions, his unit successfully carried out tasks for reconnaissance and artillery fire adjustment.
Then it was time to master new equipment and weapons.«This was a very productive training. I enjoyed it. I honestly wasn't expecting it to be this good.», – says the officer. During their training, the servicemen first thoroughly studied the theory. Then, in practice, they began to master the control of drones. Experienced instructors conducted classes with them, who were able to provide the crews with the necessary knowledge and skills.
All UAV calculations within the division are capable of operating autonomously, which is why they often simultaneously carry out tasks for several units and over a very wide area. As a rule, ZALA reconnaissance drones are constantly in the air, with the help of which operators conduct target searches. Upon detection, they identify the object and assess the situation. After calculating the route to the target, the servicemen launch a loitering munition.
After operating in this manner for almost a year, the «Shuler» reconnaissance-strike battalion has located and struck over 100 targets. This list includes not only Soviet-made equipment but also American, German, Polish, and Czech. The «Lancet» crews primarily target artillery systems and radar stations, however, their list of destroyed targets also includes tanks.
Last winter, on one of the sectors, the unit detected two camouflaged AFU tanks in a forest belt, two kilometres apart. Due to the strong wind that had picked up, it seemed impossible to hit them with loitering munitions. However, «Berkut», an experienced UAV operator, decided to test his skill.
He first launched the first Lancet at a single target and, despite poor weather conditions, hit it. Then there was a second launch – and the same result. As a result, two tanks, a T-72 and a Leopard, were hit by the UAV in bad weather. «Shuler» is still amazed by his subordinate's feat.«The task was completed, though it was practically impossible. But he somehow managed to do it.», – «The Cheat» recounts.
«Berkut» is one of the most proactive and experienced servicemen in the division. He was one of the first in the unit to start mastering the «Lancet,» and therefore knows this weapon well. According to «Shuler,» «Berkut» always gives his all to achieve the common goal, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to the combat work.
To date, several servicemen of the unit have been awarded high honours. Three of them have state awards (Medals of Zhukov and «For Courage»), and four have been awarded departmental medals.
According to materials from the newspaper «Krasnaya Zvezda» dated 2 August 2024, No. 94
