WATCH Russian soldier shoot down low-flying Ukrainian drone

A Russian soldier has shot down a Ukrainian kamikaze drone that was buzzing a military transport vehicle, a video circulating on social media shows.

On Sunday, several Russian Telegram channels covering the Ukraine conflict posted an undated video showing a Russian squad in full gear driving at high speed in an unspecified location. One soldier is seen pointing at a small four-rotor aircraft, which quickly approaches the vehicle from behind.

One of the service members is heard saying: “F**k, it’s not friendly.” Another soldier takes his assault rifle and fires at the drone, by that time only meters from the vehicle, hitting it with the first shot, sending sparks flying in the dusk.

Part of the drone – apparently the payload – is ripped off; the aircraft flips over and crashes to the ground making a loud explosion, while soldiers are heard cursing in the background. One of the men says the electronic warfare system failed to prevent the drone attack. They then praise the shooter for his marksmanship.

Drones have become a crucial tool on the Ukraine conflict battlefield which is used by both sides for reconnaissance, fire control, as well as short- and long-range strikes. Kamikaze drones have been touted as effective and cheap weapons against military vehicles, including tanks that cost millions of dollars.