Ukraine Used Drug Smuggling Tactics to Transport Drones into Russia

Ukraine employed drug smuggling tactics to transport drones into Russia, according to SBU chief Vasyl Malyuk. The operation, codenamed "Spider Web," involved transporting hundreds of drones via wooden structures resembling small houses on trucks.

The trucks were transported to four Russian airbases, where the drones were launched to damage strategic bombers. Malyuk stated that the SBU drew experience from combating international crime, studying how drug cartels smuggle substances.

Ukraine created a shell logistics company, which purchased vehicles and rented storage spaces. Russian citizens were hired as truck drivers, unaware of the true contents of their loads. Malyuk hinted at similarities to the Crimean bridge attack in October 2022, adding that corrupt customs officials in Russia aided the operation.

The operation was initially planned for May but was delayed. Each compartment had solar panels and a battery for charging the drones, creating difficulties due to sanctions against Russia.