On November 4–5, 2026, the final of the military-sports competition «Wild Drones» concluded in Truskavets, featuring the best unmanned systems operators of the Defense Forces of Ukraine. The winner in the FPV racing discipline was the 421st Separate Unmanned Systems Battalion of the Air Assault Forces «Sapsan», while the 429th Unmanned Systems Brigade «Achilles» claimed first place in the team standings. This was reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to the tournament organizers' press release.
Final Dedicated to the 35th Anniversary of the Armed Forces of Ukraine: 20 Teams and Three Training Centers
The competition was timed to coincide with the 35th anniversary of the creation of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to the organizers, the final was held under conditions of secrecy with the support of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Mykhailo Drapatyi. The decisive stage brought together 20 season teams—ten from qualifying rounds previously held in Truskavets (May) and Chernivtsi. Three training centers competed separately, allowing the training of the UAV operator personnel reserve to be included in the program.
Disciplines and Equipment: From FPV Racing to Heavy Bombers
Over the course of two days, participants completed tasks in several disciplines. The key event was the FPV race for speed and maneuvering, where pilots demonstrated control precision and reaction times. The second discipline—drops from heavy Vampire bombers, nicknamed «Baba Yaga» in the troops—tested the operators' ability to deliver pinpoint strikes on designated targets. The team standings utilized DJI reconnaissance drones, Shrike FPV devices, and Vampire bombers manufactured by the Ukrainian company Skyfall. Thus, both imported and domestic equipment were simultaneously used at the competition, reflecting the actual structure of the UAV fleet at the front.
Tournament Goals: Horizontal Connections and User Feedback
According to the organizers, «Wild Drones» aims to develop horizontal ties between military units, foster a corporate culture among UAV operators, and facilitate the exchange of experience and psycho-emotional recovery of personnel. It is specifically emphasized that the competition serves as a platform where drone manufacturers can present their developments and receive direct feedback from end users—operators who daily operate the equipment in combat conditions. The tournament was organized, in particular, by the 93rd Separate Mechanized Brigade «Kholodnyi Yar» and the NGO «Dyka Honka».
Context: Growth in UAV Procurement and Plans for the Next Season
The final of «Wild Drones» took place against the backdrop of a significant expansion of the unmanned systems fleet in the army. In October, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reported that the Defense Procurement Agency had contracted 300% more UAVs in 2026 than the previous year. Minister of Defense Yevhen Khmara pointed out that the new contracts include middle strike class drones designed to destroy enemy UAV crews, sever supply chains, and hit command posts. In the next season, the organizers of «Wild Drones» plan an updated competition format—with new rules, an expanded list of disciplines, and a modified team composition.
