Ukraine Deploys Next-Level Decoys to Disrupt Russian Targeting Systems

In Donetsk region, the war is no longer fought only with firepower but also with illusions. Deception has become a central element of Ukraine’s defense, shaping how Russia commits its resources and exposing the fragility of its targeting process. The battlefield is saturated with surveillance drones and precision munitions, yet what matters is not just what can be seen, but whether it can be believed. Against this backdrop, Ukraine has steadily refined its use of decoys, moving from simple mock-ups to advanced systems designed to trick both human operators and automated recognition software. These tactics alter the cost balance of war, forcing Russia to waste expensive missiles and drones on false targets while real Ukrainian assets remain intact. What is unfolding is a deception arms race, where innovation and adaptability determine not only who survives but also who controls the tempo of battle.

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