Ukrainian forces destroy the “brains” of Russia’s elite drone unit Rubicon in Donetsk Oblast. Kyiv troops delivered a precise strike on the unmanned aerial command post of the unit, destroying a large ammunition depot, the General Staff of the Armed Forces reports. 

Ukrainian forces struck a number of important Russian targets in Donetsk Oblast

A command post of the Russian elite “Rubikon” UAV unit and a large ammunition depot were targeted General Staff pic.twitter.com/6lsE53FJ71

— Euromaidan Press (@EuromaidanPress) August 22, 2025

“Rubicon” — Kremlin’s elite drone project

The Rubicon unit was created only in August 2024, but quickly became one of Russia’s most dangerous high-tech formations. It brought together the most skilled personnel, effective command, and virtually unlimited funding.

Russia has been deploying Rubicon with several hundred to several thousand fighters, aiming to expand its operations across the entire frontline, according to Army Inform. 

Azov commander: “After Rubicon appeared, it got tougher”

The commander of the Azov Brigade’s unmanned systems battalion, call sign Bud, told Radio NV:

“They caused us obvious problems, primarily with logistics. I think when they entered this direction, their clear mission was to hit our supply lines as much as possible.”

Since Rubicon’s appearance, the situation for Ukrainian units has become more complicated, as the Russians actively target transport and supply routes.

A strategic success for Ukraine

Experts note that the loss of Rubicon’s command post could significantly slow the development of this Russian project.

“The combat work of missile troops and artillery continues constantly,” the General Staff emphasized.

Earlier, Forbes reported that Rubicon significantly weakened Ukraine’s drone advantage in Russia’s Kursk Oblast by inflicting serious losses on logistics and destroying equipment.

Additionally, Rubicon employs advanced radio-control systems capable of bypassing Ukrainian electronic warfare defenses. As a result, Ukrainian logistics suffered heavy damage from drone attacks, with hundreds of Ukrainian vehicles destroyed, including supply trucks, M2 Bradleys, and MaxxPro armored vehicles.