November 19, 2025
Fighters on the Lyman axis destroyed one Merlin and three Zala UAVs, striking a blow to the enemy’s reconnaissance capabilities
The Signum unit has reported a successful operation in the Lyman direction, where its crew detected and destroyed rare russian Merlin reconnaissance drone along with three Zala unmanned aerial vehicles. The results were published on the official page, underscoring another effective episode of Ukraine’s counter-UAV defense.
According to the report, Ukrainian fighters eliminated a total of four enemy drones: three Zala and one Merlin systems. While Zala UAVs are common tools of russian frontline reconnaissance, the destruction of the Merlin system is considered a particularly notable achievement due to its specialized role and low visibility.
The unit explained that the Merlin is a short-range russian reconnaissance UAV powered by a quiet electric motor. This makes it difficult to detect with traditional acoustic or visual means, allowing russian forces to use it for artillery adjustment and covert observation of Ukrainian positions.
Its key strengths, mobility, low acoustic signature, and minimal radar cross-section, have long made the Merlin drones a challenge for Ukrainian defenders. Unlike louder or bulkier reconnaissance platforms, this UAV often operates close to the front line, collecting precise data for russian artillery systems.
For this reason, the destruction of the Merlin drone represents more than just one recorded kill. It is a targeted strike against the enemy’s ability to monitor Ukrainian positions, correct fire, and conduct rapid tactical surveillance. Each downed Merlin drone reduces russia’s situational awareness and undermines its artillery effectiveness.
The simultaneous elimination of three Zala drones further demonstrates the growing skill and coordination of Ukraine’s anti-UAV units. Russia’s Zala systems are among most frequently used reconnaissance drones, and their loss disrupts routine battlefield observation and data collection.
As Defense Express previously reported, the Unmanned Systems Forces carried out a coordinated strike on two key infrastructure sites located in the temporarily occupied areas of Donetsk region, using the FP-2 systems.
According to official reports, Ukrainian drone units targeted the Zuivska and Starobeshivska thermal power plants, both of which have been used by russian forces to support military activity in the region.
