---
title: "How Russian Forces Control Drones via Mesh Networks: Air Force Explanation"
description: "The military discussed the use of mesh networks for remote drone control and the development of AI-based systems."
date: 2026-10-26T06:59:04.681Z
lang: en
url: https://xab.info/en/posts/how-rf-controls-drones-via-mesh-networks
tags: [drones, mesh-networks, air-force, ukraine, military-tech, ai]
author: "Alexander Buran"
publisher: "XAB.info"
---

# How Russian Forces Control Drones via Mesh Networks: Air Force Explanation

![Yuriy Ihnat, Head of Communications for the Air Force Command, at a briefing](https://xab.info/media/2026/10/26/kak-rf-upravlyaet-dronami-cherez-mesh-seti/kak-rf-upravlyaet-dronami-cherez-mesh-seti-1.webp)

## Key Points

- Russian drones can create mesh networks to relay signals.
- Operators are capable of controlling devices from remote regions of Russia.
- UAVs are equipped with rear-view cameras and parking sensors to evade interceptors.
- Military technologies are actively shifting toward artificial intelligence and machine vision systems.

Russian forces are improving attack drone control technologies by using mesh network principles to transmit signals over long distances. This was stated by Yuriy Ihnat, Head of Communications for the Air Force Command, on the RBC-Ukraine podcast 'TSE BAZA', emphasizing the enemy's continuous adaptation to air defense systems.

### Application of Mesh Networks and Signal Relaying

According to Yuriy Ihnat, drones can act as relays for each other, building complex grids in the airspace. This organization allows operators located in remote Russian regions, such as the Bryansk or Oryol regions, to transmit commands to devices flying deep into the Ukrainian rear. In addition, specialists do not rule out the use of ground communication stations involving an internal agent network.

### Evasion Technologies and Onboard Equipment

The adversary continues to equip loitering munitions with additional protection systems, including rear-view cameras and sensors similar to car parking sensors. These devices detect the approach of interceptors and signal a maneuver, complicating the task for air defense forces. Nevertheless, manual operator control at the final stage of flight has limitations in the face of new technological challenges.

### Introduction of Artificial Intelligence

The military sphere is rapidly moving towards automation, where machine vision systems and artificial intelligence play a key role. New solutions appear almost monthly, reducing the drones' dependence on a constant communication channel with the operator. This forces the Ukrainian side to quickly adapt tactics for countering aerial threats.

### Significance of Technological Adaptation

The development of unmanned systems and their network interaction methods requires Ukraine to provide a proactive response in electronic warfare and air defense. The enemy's ability to introduce innovations dictates the need for continuous improvement of defense technologies and strengthening airspace protection.

## Fact-Check & Sources

- [Как РФ управляет дронами через mesh-сети и есть ли угроза с Беларуси: объяснение Воздушных сил](https://www.rbc.ua/ukr/news/k-rf-kerue-dronami-cherez-mesh-merezhi-ta-1792997656.html) - The article is fully based on the interview with Air Force Command Communications Chief Yuriy Ihnat.

## FAQ

### How do mesh networks work for drones?

Drones can fly one after another and transmit signals from device to device, forming a single grid for operator control.

### What devices are installed on drones for defense against interceptors?

The devices are equipped with rear-view cameras and sensors similar to car parking sensors that signal the approach of an object to perform a maneuver.

### What technology is replacing manual control?

Solutions based on machine vision and artificial intelligence are actively developing in the military sphere.