6 h. ago ‘Drone operators are hunted. You feel it from your first day’: the female pilots on Ukraine’s frontline

As casualties mount, recruitment is expanding. Three women talk about why they signed up for a brutal combat environmentWomen have been involved in Ukraine’s drone operations since the early months of the full-scale invasion, but as shortages in the military increase their presence has grown, particularly in FPV (first-person-view) attack units.Casualty figures are not disclosed but widely understood to be high, and Ukraine is becoming reliant on civilians to fill roles that once belonged to trained military personnel. A short but intensive 15-day course is given to a trainee operator for frontline deployment, a turnaround that reflects the urgent need.Indoor and outdoor training courses set up for trainee pilots at a drone school Continue reading...

Events

6 d. ago RAF pilots targeted with lasers by Russian spy ship off British waters in Putin's 'grey warfare'

‘Military options’ may be ordered against the vessel if it gets close to the UK, says Defence Secretary

Events

7 d. ago Moscow passes laws to boost defences against Ukrainian strikes

Vladimir Putin authorises the guarding of fuel sites by reservists, internet blackouts and tighter sentencing for acts of sabotageRussia has passed sweeping laws to bolster its defences at home against Ukrainian drone strikes and sabotage operations, reflecting the Kremlin’s expectation of a protracted war with Ukraine.Almost four years into Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine – a full-scale invasion he expected to last only weeks – Moscow is being targeted almost daily by Ukrainian drones striking energy facilities, while Ukrainian operatives have assassinated a number of high-profile Russian military figures deep inside the country. Continue reading...

Events

2 w. ago Senior police officer investigated after drone crash injures child

Drone fell on child while in operation searching for assault suspect, police say

Events

3 w. ago Rapper branded 'an idiot' and accused of 'taking the mick' after blocking Peak District road with £300,000 Rolls

Police had to be called after Tion Wayne's entourage reportedly stopped traffic from using Winnats Pass while a cameraman and drone operator recorded his impromptu performance.

Economics

3 w. ago Prince William continues to be a hit in Brazil as he cuddles a baby while swarmed by adoring female fans (and even has a day named in his honour)

The Prince of Wales continues to be a hit in Brazil as he held a baby who was excitedly thrust towards him during a walkabout on Paquetá Island.

Events

4 w. ago Ukraine's elite 'ghost' unit smashed Russian air defences in covert drone attack

A top secret drone unit inside Ukraine's covert operation intelligence directorate dubbed 'ghost' is systematically dismantling Russia's ability to defend its military and industry

Events