FPV Drone Tactics and Countermeasures

Understanding FPV (First Person View) Drones in Military Applications.

FPV (First Person View) drones are named for their ability to let the operator see exactly what the drone "sees" during flight, thanks to a camera mounted on the drone. This camera provides a live video feed to a display device, such as:

• FPV Goggles: These create an immersive experience, making the operator feel as if they are "onboard" the drone.

• Screens or Smartphones: Used as monitors to view the live video feed in real-time.

The term "First Person View" originates from the operator’s perspective, similar to piloting an aircraft from within the cockpit. This capability enhances precision and situational awareness, making FPV drones especially effective in military scenarios, including:

• Surveillance and reconnaissance: Gathering real-time intelligence over enemy positions while remaining undetected.

• Targeted strikes: Delivering payloads with high accuracy against specific targets.

• Counter-drone operations: Identifying and neutralizing hostile drones in the field.

The FPV system represents a significant evolution compared to traditional drones, which are controlled by visually observing them from the ground without an immersive view.

The Evolution of FPV Drones in Modern Warfare

The rapid technological advancements in FPV drones and their components have significantly enhanced their combat capabilities. These improvements include increased range and flight time, higher payload capacity, greater resistance to electronic warfare, and adaptability to low-visibility conditions. Additionally, developments in ammunition types, intelligent target acquisition and tracking systems, and the establishment of specialized UAV testing centers and operator training programs have broadened their tactical applications and the variety of missions they can accomplish.
This material provides a concise overview of FPV drones, outlining their general characteristics and examining key tactical methods for their use in combat, particularly in countering Russian forces. These techniques are increasingly adopted by drone operators on the battlefield.
A dedicated section also offers practical advice and recommendations for countering kamikaze drones on the front lines, addressing the growing challenges posed by this evolving technology.

FPV Drone Tactics and Countermeasures

I. General information about FPV drones

FPV ( First Person View) drones are UAVs equipped with a video camera and transmitting real-time images to the pilot’s glasses or helmet (controlled from the first person).

Advantages over quadcopters:

• first-person drone control;

• instant response and maximum control over the drone;

• high maneuverability and flight speed (up to 120 km/h);

• resistance to the impact of electronic warfare (due to the modularity of the device, which allows for quick changes to the configuration and settings);

• the ability to change the drone design to suit the task;

• low cost of the product

Disadvantages include:

• average flight duration 7-10 minutes;

• flight range (without repeater) – up to 10 km;

• the need for selection and high-quality training of the pilot (operational training)

 1. Equipment

 2. General structure of FPV drone

• drone size – 7 inches;

• load capacity – up to 2.5 kg;

• maximum speed (with load) – up to 120 km/h;

• flight time with load – up to 10 min;

• flight range with load (without repeater) – 10-12 km;

• time to prepare for launch – 2 min.

3. Key Roles in UAV Operations

• Senior Calculation Officer: Oversees mission planning and coordination.

• FPV Drone Operator: Pilots drones for strikes or surveillance.

• Ammunition Specialist: Prepares and manages UAV payloads.

• Reconnaissance Drone Operator: Operates drones for intelligence gathering.

II. Tactical techniques for using FPV drones

• Classic: Target identification by a reconnaissance UAV - launching an FPV drone to destroy the target.

  This is the most common method of combat deployment. It involves detecting a target using a reconnaissance drone and relaying the coordinates to the FPV drone operator for destruction. The reconnaissance UAV records video footage of the target's destruction.





• Free Hunting: FPV strikes on pre-identified targets and positions.

  This method involves using FPV drones independently to strike previously identified enemy targets and positions.





• FPV Swarm: Coordinated group strike using multiple FPV drone.

  This method involves identifying targets with a reconnaissance UAV and launching a group of kamikaze drones (5-12 units) to destroy them. The reconnaissance drone records the destruction, and the attack can be combined with artillery or mortar fire for added impact.





• Escorting Assault Groups with FPV Drones: Providing fire support during advances.

  This method involves using FPV drones to attack enemy positions in coordination with the advancing assault group. Actions are guided and coordinated through a reconnaissance UAV. FPV drone strikes can also be combined with artillery and mortar fire for enhanced effectiveness.





• FPV Drone Ambush: Hidden positioning - observation - surprise attack.

  This tactic involves positioning an FPV drone in a concealed location near key areas such as roads, intersections, or locations where enemy equipment and personnel are likely to gather. The drone remains hidden and inactive, with only its control channel receiver turned on, awaiting the right moment to launch a surprise attack. When paired with a reconnaissance UAV or signal repeater, the ambush range can exceed 5 km, with a standby time of up to 6 hours. At night, attacks can be triggered using vehicle headlights as targets or by deploying FPV drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras for enhanced accuracy in darkness.





• Combination Strike: FPV strike on target - dropping ammunition from a bomber drone.

  This method combines the capabilities of FPV drones and "bomber" drones to inflict complex fire damage on identified targets. An FPV drone first destroys or disables armored vehicles (or other targets), followed by a bomber drone dropping ammunition. Alternatively, the bomber drone can target personnel or unarmored vehicles to immobilize them, allowing FPV drones to deliver follow-up strikes.





• Double Impact: Using two or more FPV drones with different charges to breach a shelter.

  This method involves deploying multiple FPV drones in sequence to destroy fortified shelters. The first drone, equipped with a cumulative charge, penetrates the barrier. The second drone, typically armed with a thermobaric or fragmentation charge, delivers fire damage to the interior spaces.





• FPV Trap: Clever methods to turn drones into bait for enemies.

  • The drone lands and emits a sound signal. When someone approaches or tries to capture it, the FPV operator detonates it remotely using a reconnaissance UAV or a signal repeater.

  • The drone is equipped with a device (e.g., "Jonik") that triggers self-detonation if its position is altered. A magnetic sensor can also be added to activate the explosion if placed on metal surfaces.

  • A small explosive charge (20-50 g) is embedded in the drone's structure. It activates during any attempt to dismantle the drone.

  • The drone is fitted with a GPS beacon that tracks its location. If moved, the beacon guides a follow-up strike to the new position.

  • The drone’s body is treated with potent toxic substances that cause severe skin blisters on contact, acting as a physical deterrent.





• FPV-Miner: Deploying anti-personnel or anti-tank mines and camouflaged IEDs.

  This tactic involves using FPV drones to covertly place anti-personnel or anti-tank mines and camouflaged IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) along rotation routes, evacuation paths, or near strategic positions and objects. The goal is to target enemy personnel and equipment with precision and minimal detection.





• FPV-Sapper: Dropping ammunition or placing charges on mines.

  This method is used for demining areas such as roads and pathways. An FPV drone drops ammunition or places surface charges on visible and uncamouflaged mines to neutralize them effectively and safely.





• FPV Reset: Dropping ammunition on target.

  This tactic involves using an FPV drone to drop ammunition on targets, such as personnel in open areas or poorly protected shelters (e.g., "holes"). A reconnaissance UAV guides the FPV drone to the target. In some cases, ammunition with toxic substances has been used. Additionally, this method is often employed to deliver payloads to friendly troops in the field.





• FPV-Dragon: Spraying incendiary mixture over enemy positions.

  This tactic involves using an FPV drone equipped with a thermite charge, typically based on a 120-mm artillery incendiary munition, to ignite and disable enemy personnel, equipment, exposed ammunition, and other assets. The incendiary mixture is sprayed from an altitude of 20-50 meters, with a burning time of up to 2 minutes and a temperature exceeding 2300°C.





• FPV-PVO: UAV destruction.

  FPV drones are deployed to combat reconnaissance UAVs and hexacopters. Upon detection of UAVs through radio-technical means (operating at altitudes up to 3 km and speeds up to 110 km/h), FPV drones are launched to intercept and neutralize them. The drones disable targets by detonating a fragmentation charge upon close approach or by ramming. Target designation is provided by the radar operator.





• FPV-Saboteur: Covert deployment of sabotage and reconnaissance drones.

  This tactic is employed by sabotage and reconnaissance groups to destroy or disable enemy military equipment and infrastructure. Kamikaze FPV drones (4-6 units) are covertly installed near the target, typically within 2-3 km, and set to "standby" mode. The drones are remotely activated via a GSM network signal to strike pre-determined targets using pre-loaded coordinates.





• FPV on the Mother Drone: Extending the combat range.

  To extend the combat range of FPV drones, a larger UAV, referred to as the "mother drone," is used. These "mother drones" can be of both fixed-wing (aircraft) and rotary-wing ("copter") types and often double as signal repeaters. They carry two or three FPV drones as payload, significantly increasing their operational range to up to 60-70 km, depending on the type of mother drone. Additionally, unmanned boats (UBCs) can also serve as "mothers" for FPV drones, offering a versatile platform for launching drones in both land and maritime operations.





• FPV on Wires: Ensuring stable drone control.

  To maintain stable control of FPV drones and counteract electronic warfare systems, drones equipped with fiber-optic cables are being used. This setup ensures reliable communication and guaranteed target destruction at ranges up to 10 km, and in some models, up to 25 km. A key advantage of this method is the high clarity of the video feed throughout the drone's route. Operational considerations include avoiding sudden maneuvers and steering clear of fires or hazards along the flight path.





• Inspection of Buildings: Monitoring and control of interiors.

  Short-range FPV drones, known as "tiny whoops" (microcopters with blade protection), are used to detect enemies and monitor the interiors of buildings during assault operations. These drones are compact and lightweight, with general specifications including a diameter of up to 100 mm, a weight of up to 50 g, a flight time of up to 4 minutes, and a communication range of up to 500 meters within buildings.





• FPV-Swearing Speaker: Psychological operations against the enemy.

  To weaken the morale and psychological state of enemy personnel and pressure them into surrendering, FPV drones equipped with speakers are deployed to broadcast audio messages over their positions. These drones typically hover at heights of up to 50 meters to maximize the impact of their broadcasts.





• Flying Leaflets: Dropping informational materials from an FPV drone.

  FPV drones are used to drop leaflets as part of psychological operations targeting enemy personnel and the local population. These drones can carry up to 2 kg of printed materials, equivalent to approximately 200 leaflets, and release them over enemy positions to disseminate messages.

III. Methods of countering FPV drones

An effective defensive strategy against FPV drones involves a comprehensive approach that incorporates both active and passive measures. These must be implemented collectively by the unit and individually by each serviceman.

Active events include:

Identification and destruction: Detection and elimination of kamikaze drone operator crews involve identifying potential launch sites by looking for signs such as antennas, areas specifically prepared for FPV drone launches, traces of ammunition handling (e.g., dismantling, packaging, or boxes), inconspicuous passenger vehicles, and repeaters placed on high-rise buildings or other infrastructure.

Early Detection of UAVs: This can be achieved visually, by sound, or through signals from a detector or analyzer. Notification: Receiving a command or message from a senior officer, observation post, or nearby units about the presence of a drone in your operational area.

Electronic Suppression: Disrupting radio frequencies used for control channels, video signal transmission, and satellite navigation through electronic warfare systems.

Minimizing Time in Potentially Dangerous Areas: Reducing exposure by utilizing high-speed vehicles, such as an Induro-type motorcycle, which can cover 5 km in just 4 minutes at a speed of approximately 80 km/h.

Fire Impact: Destroying drones using small arms, primarily smoothbore guns, at a range of up to 50 meters.

Mechanical Impact: Capturing drones at close range (20-30 meters) using specialized tools like “net throwers.”

Maneuver: Personnel actions to avoid drone strikes, such as dispersing, taking cover, or moving actively in open areas when under threat.

Logistical Support: Delivering ammunition, water, and food to front-line units using “heavy copters” and ground-based robotic systems, which can also evacuate the wounded.

Optical Countermeasures: Future methods include disrupting drone cameras with laser devices that emit a wide light beam.

Passive activities:

Additional fortification equipment of positions (preparation of anti-drone niches and “holes”, bends at the entrance to dugouts and shelters, installation of hanging protective nets and barriers);

Camouflage of positions and equipment (installation of camouflage nets with irregular geometric shapes at a distance of 0.3-0.5 m from equipment in the shade of trees and bushes, inside destroyed buildings, use of heat-protective capes, monitoring of unmasking signs from a drone);

Creation of false positions (equipped with heat and light sources) with the installation of models of military equipment and transport (including unsuitable ones to exploitation) and imitation of their activities;

Installation of protective nets (screens) from fishing nets on rotation routes, evacuation of personnel, delivery of ammunition, water and food;

Installation of hanging protective elements (canopies, awnings) and "domes" electronic warfare systems for equipment;

Taking into account weather conditions, terrain features and time of day when planning active actions and movements;

Setting up aerosol curtains, creating smoke sources in positions (objects) and routes of movement (including false ones).

General recommendations for personnel to counteract FPV drones (based on SVO experience)

The number of UAVs at the front is growing exponentially. Drone duty in the air has led to decentralization and a reduction in troops at the front. Where there used to be a platoon, now they make do with a squad. Where there used to be a "support", there are now three "holes" with 2 people each. Both sides are trying to minimize movements on the LBS. One "armor" can attract up to a dozen "birds", and 2-3 drones participate in the race for a soldier. In the LBS area, reconnaissance drones, "bombers" and FPV crews take turns in their sectors to conduct surveillance in readiness for work. Some search, others strike.

• Disguise

• Camouflage yourself from aerial observation, use awnings, fabric nets, branches, grass, foliage. The following things will give away your position: polyethylene film, white bags, household garbage, fresh earth, and the movement of fighters.

• You are less visible from the air if you: are not moving; are in the shadow of buildings (objects); are sitting instead of lying down (reducing your dimensions); match the color of your uniform with the terrain, that is, do not fuss and do not “reflect you're chilling.”

• It is better to move and hide in the shade of trees and slopes. Do not make sudden movements and do not run - it is noticeable. Relatively safe time and weather - twilight, night, fog, rain. Protective capes from "hothouses" - in the theme.

• Place and camouflage equipment in forest belts, along (inside) buildings and hangars, change its location, equip simple camouflaged canopies. Pay special attention to covering car windows - they glare. If the enemy is in the north, place the equipment behind the building on the south side.

• Do not place transport near the positions, put it in a hidden place for a quick "move". Collect all the garbage in bags and a separate pit. Scattered packages of rations, cans, plastic bottles, polyethylene perfectly unmask the position. To control the camouflage "quietly" launch your drone and inspect the area to identify unmasking signs.

• Camouflage nets are always needed in large quantities. When installing, change their configuration, the more unclear and blurry the silhouette, the more difficult it is to detect the object. Satellite dishes heat up, they should be hidden in a hole and camouflaged from both daytime and thermal imaging cameras.

• Create false positions with unmasking signs. Install mock-ups of military equipment or disabled transport. Simulate their activity. Make a fire at night in empty shelters, place "trenches" "new" candles.

• Observe light masking at night. Light from a cigarette, a campfire, light, flashlights, headlights, phone screens – attracts drones like moths to a flame.

• Conversations about life should only be made in cover. No need to huddle together with cigarettes if you are bored. Do not wander around your positions without doing anything. If you are called on command, warn another soldier. The main criterion for the enemy to detect you from the air is movement during the day and heat reflections at night. Keep quiet, try to communicate in a whisper and with gestures, listen to sounds.

• Fortification and transport

• When equipping a trench, make a side niche at the bottom - it will protect against shrapnel during shelling, FPV strikes and ammunition drops. Exits from dugouts - in the shape of the letter "G". Hang a protective blanket at the entrance to the shelter. Equip a second entrance to the dugout (the first can be blocked as a result of a hit).

• As obstacles for FPV drones, prepare and secure cord anti-drone curtains made of 4-5 mm thick ropes in front of the positions: length – 6 m, height – up to 4 m, interval between hanging ropes – 20 cm.

• Another option for protection is to install screens made of cheap fishing nets (length - up to 80, height - 4 m, cost up to 10 euro) - they are invisible to the operator, equip additional awnings and canopies. No ingenuity - no shelter!

• It is advisable to prepare and install smoke grenades in advance at the position (at a distance of 20-30 m) for their activation in the event of a threat of strikes by kamikaze drones. Each person has instantaction hand smoke grenades.

• The presence of additional protective elements on equipment ("visors", "barbecues", shields, nets, chains, anti-fragmentation protection in the form of 1 cm thick pieces of rubber on "self-tapping screws") will increase the survivability of the crew and passengers when attacked by drones. The main thing is not to overdo it.

• The desired ideal version of technical means of electronic warfare at the platoon position: spectrum analyzer and UAV detector, device for intercepting video images from FPV drones, portable broadband "dome" system of electronic suppression, individual mobile "suppressors". On the equipment - a mobile version of the "dome system". Bold, but it does no harm to dream.

• Getting a proven electronic warfare drone suppressor for your vehicle is a military blessing. Don't cover it with a camouflage net. Monitor the battery charge of the miracle device. It's sad when you thoughtlessly "jam" the vehicle during a mission and are unknowingly left without a "dome". Wait for the evil spirits.

• In order to combat the "hunters" of aircraft-type UAVs, It is necessary to install onboard electronic warfare systems.

• How else can you influence the video transmission channel of an approaching enemy FPV drone? To detect it, you can use an FPV monitor or glasses, with which you search for the transmission channel (usually 5.8 GHz). On your drone's video transmitter, set the same channel and maximum power. After launch, interference is created in the control of the video transmission channel (the drones "work" on the same frequency).

• Mechanical robotic platforms and “heavy” drones for providing logistics of ammunition, water, food and evacuation of the wounded significantly reduce personnel losses from FPV drones.

• Actions when a drone is detected

• Always listen to sounds, feel the "sky". First, detect by sound (you can hear better at night), then visually. Spread your ears and keep your eyes open. Notify in a timely manner. Treat all UAVs as hostile.

• Learn to distinguish between a Maywick and an FPV by sound. The first one works quieter and smoother and the second one is more piercing and has sharp changes during acceleration.

• In order to increase security, movement should be carried out (in time and place) based on an analysis of the activity of enemy drones in a specific combat zone (the enemy knows about the “gray” time).

• Avoid open and exposed areas (postcard); instead, move along vegetation or plantings. In populated areas, progress from one building to another. When moving as a trio, maintain a distance of at least 5 meters between each member. It is recommended to move discreetly in these small groups toward the checkpoint or shelter.

• Reconnaissance drone – a precursor to FPV. If you spot an enemy UAV while moving (including in a car), don’t lead it to yours. Take cover, wait, observe and don’t reveal your unit’s position. When landing, lean against a tree trunk and don’t move.

• Always control the "sky" in sectors while moving. Keep your distance and notice the nearest shelters (destroyed buildings, "holes", plantings, bushes, etc.) for a "dash" when there is a threat of being hit by a drone. A shell crater, as a "safe place", will act as a grave. Do not gather "in a bunch" in one place. Dispersion, maneuver and speed.

• Heard FPV – take cover immediately. If you are on a “postcard area” – make sudden sharp movements. Leave the operator’s observation sector, (fall) to the side during an attack. The chances are better for the masters of “shuttle” running. It is advisable to practice.

• If the drone is in close proximity (20-30 m) – don’t try to “freeze” in the hope that it won’t notice and will fly past. Don't stay still! Salvation is in reaction and movement.

• Firing from small arms is ineffective (small target size, high speed). In addition, when shooting you are static, which makes it easier for the operator to aim the drone. At close range (up to 50 m), there is a chance for a shooter (better two) with hunting or pump-action shotguns. In order to be ready and prepared, practice on "skeet shooting".

• There have been instances where the drone operator toys with the target. However, if you act quickly and skillfully by dodging and taking cover (even a 40 cm tree trunk can provide some protection) while attempting to attack the drone by throwing objects like sticks or other items, your chances of survival improve. Such actions have been observed in real situations.

• When driving a vehicle, pay special attention to monitoring the “sky” from the rear and flanks (up to 80% of FPV drone attacks are on the rear and sides of the vehicle).

• In dangerous areas, move at the maximum safe speed. Do not choose long routes. If a kamikaze drone is detected, it is advisable to move to the side (preferably to a forest plantation, to buildings), stop and quickly disperse. The chances of escaping from FPV along the route are negligible.

• When the vehicle stops, everyone must exit immediately and efficiently. There’s no time to hesitate, crowd around, or argue about tasks like unloading ammunition. Delays increase the risk of becoming a high-priority target. Time is critical.

• High-speed vehicles like dirt bikes, buggies, and quad bikes with skilled drivers enhance survivability and improve cargo logistics in the front-line area. Electric models, in particular, provide silent movement, allowing drivers and passengers to detect drones earlier by sound.

• Extreme driving demands rigorous training for drivers. Practice both day and night to develop the ability to recognize landmarks in daylight and navigate using them after dark.

• If you notice an FPV drone on the ground—particularly if it emits a beeping sound near your position—exercise extreme caution. Avoid running toward it excitedly, hoping to claim it as a trophy. Such scenarios could be deliberate traps set by the enemy.
  Do not approach the drone from the side where the camera is facing; the operator may be actively monitoring and waiting for someone to appear in the frame. Refrain from touching the drone entirely. Instead, mark its location with a visible marker to ensure others are aware of its presence, and promptly report the sighting to your commander. A trained specialist will handle the situation safely, minimizing risk to personnel and equipment.

IV. Conclusion

The rapid advancement and adaptation of FPV drones for modern military operations have resulted in a substantial expansion of the variety of combat missions they can undertake.

The demand from combat units for trained and well-equipped kamikaze drone crews currently outpaces the available supply on the military market. The continued innovation and development of this type of weapon will undoubtedly drive the exploration and implementation of new countermeasures, including electronic, optical, and mechanical solutions. Furthermore, it is likely to result in the formation of specialized units dedicated to both deploying these drones and countering their use effectively.

In the near future, every serviceman in combat units is likely to be involved in some aspect of countering drones. The competition in the drone versus anti-drone battlefield is only just beginning, signaling an evolving and intensifying technological arms race.