Part 7/15:
However, as Russia’s defenses adapted—embedding surface-to-air missile systems and deploying electronic countermeasures—the efficacy of these high-value drones waned. Ukraine countered by shifting focus toward smaller, more affordable commercial drones, with popular models like DJI’s Mavic series accounting for a significant share of their drone fleet. Such devices, retailing for under $1,000, proved invaluable for reconnaissance, target verification, and sporadic strikes, especially in resource-constrained conditions.