Russian Forces Intensify Slovyansk Offensive with Fiber-Optic FPV Drones, No Confirmed Advances Reported

Increased Offensive Tempo in Slovyansk Direction

On January 28, 2026, Russian forces intensified their offensive operations in the Slovyansk direction of Ukraine, increasing the tempo of military activities. Ukrainian reports indicate that despite these efforts, Russian troops did not achieve any confirmed advances in the area. Attacks were reported near settlements such as Fedorivka and towards Platonovka, with Russian forces assaulting Ukrainian positions three times. Further reports specified increased operations near Dronivka, southeast of Slovyansk, and continued pressure towards Zakitne.

Ukrainian intelligence suggests that the primary objectives for Russian forces in this sector include establishing control over the banks of the Siverskyi Donets River and consolidating positions on local heights to gain fire control over Ukrainian rear areas. Russian tactics observed included the use of fireteam infiltration to attempt to penetrate Ukrainian tactical rear positions. The current frosty weather conditions are reportedly being exploited by Russian forces to intensify these offensives, with expectations that warmer weather would complicate future operations.

Fiber-Optic FPV Drones Employed in Combat

A notable aspect of the intensified Russian operations was the increased deployment of fiber-optic first-person view (FPV) drones. These drones were reportedly used in ambushes, specifically targeting Ukrainian ground lines of communications (GLOCs). The use of fiber-optic technology in these drones is significant as it provides resistance to electronic warfare jamming, a critical advantage in the heavily contested airspace over Ukraine.

The components for such drones, including fiber-optic cables, have reportedly been supplied to Russia by China. In a strategic counter-measure, Ukrainian forces have also been utilizing reverse-engineered Russian fiber-optic drones. For instance, a Czech company, SPARK, developed the 'Jan Žižka' FPV drone based on a captured Russian 'Prince Vandal of Novgorod' UAV, which also uses a fiber-optic communication system. These Ukrainian-produced drones are noted for their resistance to electronic warfare and are reportedly more cost-effective.

Broader Frontline Activity and Strategic Buildup

Across the entire front line on January 28, intense fighting continued, with the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reporting a total of 105 clashes. Russian forces extensively utilized various forms of ordnance, conducting 92 air strikes, dropping 275 guided bombs, employing 7,915 kamikaze drones, and carrying out 3,903 attacks on Ukrainian positions and settlements, including 61 from multiple launch rocket systems.

While no confirmed advances were made in the Slovyansk direction, Russian forces also continued offensive operations in other areas, including the Kostyantynivka-Druzhkivka, Dobropillya, Hulyaipole, western Zaporizhia Oblast, and Kherson directions, similarly without confirmed territorial gains on this day. Ukrainian intelligence reports indicate a significant Russian troop buildup, with up to 80,000 personnel reportedly being assembled near Slovyansk and Kramatorsk, signaling a potential intent for further intensified pressure in these key areas.