Russia fortifies against drone threats with 'armoured barns'

There is an abundance of footage online showing FPV drone attacks, including instances where drones have even entered dugouts where Russian soldiers were attempting to hide. The "Baba Yaga" drones bombarded open trenches using mortar shells.

Ukrainians have a significant advantage in commercial drones over the Russians, and for months, these have become their primary means of combat. Therefore, it is unsurprising that the Russians have begun to adapt to the new conditions in various ways. Tanks have appeared with makeshift structures resembling an "armoured barn," and infantry units have been supplemented with drone hunters in the form of soldiers armed with semi-automatic shotguns.

Field fortifications have also needed adjustments for the new conditions. As shown in the photos below, all entrances to dugouts are covered with steel mesh designed to prematurely detonate an FPV drone. Additionally, it is evident that the Russians are attempting to camouflage entrances better using camouflage nets.

Nets at entrances provide substantial protection if, for instance, the dugout corridor is not directly facing the entrance but instead is to the side. In such a configuration, even in the event of an explosion, people or artillery ammunition inside will be shielded from shrapnel.

Conversely, nets significantly hinder quick entry into or escape from the dugout if needed. Recordings often show Russian soldiers manning a howitzer frantically attempting to take cover upon hearing the sound of a drone warning detector.

This primarily concerns dugouts or bunkers, as covering open trenches with nets makes much less sense. In such situations, for example, an FPV drone's warhead could explode in the air, and the net would not provide any protection against incendiary weapons. Thermite charges or napalm would be just as effective as if the net were not present.