In the fields outside Chasiv Yar, Ukrainian soldiers from the drone unit Yasni Ochi, which means “Clear Eyes,” are preparing to scout Russian targets in and around Bakhmut. These soldiers are part of the 23rd Mechanized Brigade and are deeply involved in the intense battles to defend Chasiv Yar, a crucial stronghold in the Ukrainian defense in the east.
One of the soldiers, Serhii, who goes by the callsign “Fly” and leads nighttime drone bombing operations, emphasizes that Ukraine is still holding on in Chasiv Yar thanks to units like Yasni Ochi. These units play a vital role in holding the line, as their drones help fend off relentless Russian assaults.
Leading the Yasni Ochi unit is Heorhii Volkov, who used to run a digital marketing firm and a business management consultancy before Russia’s full-scale invasion. Volkov notes that his background in crisis management, consulting, and logistics planning has equipped him with the skills needed to effectively lead a drone unit of nearly 150 men.
At headquarters, Volkov and his senior officers constantly plan missions. On this particular day, a team of three specialists skilled in reconnaissance missions was assigned a flight plan to scout targets around Chasiv Yar and the devastated city of Bakhmut. Throughout the day, they flew DJI Mavic drones, relentlessly marking positions where they spotted Russian soldiers and heavy armor in motion.
As dusk falls, the soldiers load their supplies and gear into a van, preparing for a long night ahead. They will spend the entire night in a dugout, so they make sure to bring plenty of food and energy drinks. The soldiers mention that summer nights are somewhat easier due to the extended daylight, but as winter approaches and the nights grow longer, their shifts become increasingly challenging.
One of the key players in the mission’s success is Anton, known by his callsign “Hooligan,” who oversees the unit’s supply chain. Before the war, Anton managed several grocery stores in his hometown of Kryvyi Rih, where he honed his skills in supply chain management. He describes his role as a “massive job,” ensuring that personnel are adequately supplied with food, gear, and other essentials. Anton explains that people often don’t realize how much work goes into making sure that each mission is equipped and successful.
Once all the supplies are gathered, a driver assigned to the mission arrives. As the sun sets, the team loads all their gear into the van. Moving during the day is perilous because targets are easy prey for the enemy. Therefore, the team must travel at night, using the cover of darkness to their advantage.
As they head out into the night, the soldiers are prepared for a long and challenging mission. But with their skills, determination, and meticulous planning, they are ready to defend their country and protect their fellow soldiers on the front lines.
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