Russian tank incinerated by cheap ‘game-changer’ drone

This is the triumphant moment the operator of a ‘game-changer’ makeshift drone is claimed to have incinerated a Russian tank in eastern Ukraine.

It is a modern David versus Goliath story, where the unmanned vehicle triumphs over the heavily-armoured beast.

Footage shows the aircraft – equipped with explosives – hovering right in front of the tank.

Using live video feed from the drone’s camera, an operator guides it to its weak points – usually an open hatch, the engine or ammunition stored in the turret.

A screengrab of the tank moments before Ukraine’s blast (Picture: 46oaembr/Instagram)

Once in position, the drone releases the full power of its payload. Moments later, an explosion follows, sending large flames billowing into the sky.

The tank shakes violently, bursting into pieces, with shrapnel and debris propelled in all directions.

What is left of the Russian machinery is just a few burnt out pieces, nothing more.

The victim is believed to be one of the so-called ‘turtle tanks’, all wrapped up in welding metal cages over their turrets in an attempt to protect them.

What was left of the tank was just debris (Picture: 46oaembr/Instagram)

The assault was captured by Ukraine’s 46th Airmobile Brigade in the Donetsk region, where the Kremlin has improved its battlefield positions in recent weeks.

For Ukraine, this victory is achieved with a few hundred pounds invested in an FPV drone, a contrast to the significant financial resources Russia expends on its tanks.

They are one of Ukraine’s most effective weapons in the war, manufactured for up to £500, often by an army of volunteers.

They serve various roles, including reconnaissance and surveillance, but are also deployed in pairs during attacks.

Depending on their size, battery and payload, range varies from a few miles to 16 miles or more.

Ukraine often shares similar videos, showcasing how the aircraft has transformed modern warfare.

It is all part of the government’s aim to manufacture a million FPV drones in 2024.

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