All training grounds and training centers remain known to the enemy due to their long-term deployment and the high volume of personnel passing through them. Concealing them entirely is unrealistic. The enemy does not indiscriminately attack these locations because the resources required, such as Iskander missiles, are limited. Instead, strikes occur when precise intelligence confirms a significant concentration of personnel.
With traitors excluded as an intelligence source, only one primary avenue of surveillance remains: UAVs. The enemy does not rely on spy satellites for real-time targeting in this context. In almost all cases, UAVs have been present above the target area before a strike occurs.
When positions are deeper in the rear, the primary reconnaissance UAV in use is the Orlan. This drone effectively tracks air defense positions and targets them using Virage. The Orlan transmits video footage, making air defense positions clearly visible. PERS does not always operate near these locations, but air defense units remain exposed. Detecting Zal and Superkam UAVs, which typically operate 70 kilometers from the front line, requires PERS support.
When the Orlan does not merely transit but remains stationary over a position for more than 30 minutes, it signals an area of interest. This hovering action indicates intelligence-gathering activity and a high likelihood of a pending attack.
The moment an Orlan begins surveillance over a logistics hub, equipment hangars, or other key locations, all activity in the area must cease. If clusters of vehicles or military equipment are stationed in an open area, they must immediately disperse. If personnel are visible below, they must leave open spaces and relocate. In most cases, simple dispersion on command is sufficient to mitigate risk.
Commanders must react immediately to the presence of UAVs and take proper countermeasures. Every successful enemy strike has occurred despite the availability of UAV warning signals.
Denial and deception tactics should be applied systematically. Decoy equipment and false logistical hubs must be established to divert enemy UAV surveillance. Moving vehicles and personnel under cover or in unpredictable patterns reduces targetability. Deploying electronic warfare countermeasures to disrupt Orlan signals is essential. Air defense must prioritize detecting UAVs, not just missiles. The assumption must be that any UAV loitering over a position is directing enemy fire. Active camouflage, quick repositioning, and staged movements will disrupt enemy target acquisition and force inefficient resource allocation.
Commanders must internalize that any persistent UAV activity signals an impending strike. The enemy does not waste reconnaissance efforts without intent. Every failure to act on a UAV presence translates into unnecessary losses.
