Giving a Jake Broe NAFO Truck to the Birds of Fury Unit - Transcript
Table of Contents 📖
"I can assure you that every dollar spent on this van, every liter of fuel in this van is an investment in making Russian soldiers... scared. So, we will use it for the best missions that we can do."
Hello Team
🎦 00:00-00:19⏩
Jonathan Pearce from ATP Geopolitics introduces Alex, a representative from the Ukrainian "Birds of Fury" drone unit, who will be discussing the unit's operations, technology and the impact of donations.
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Birds of Fury: Unit Overview
🎦 00:19-00:41⏩
Alex explains that the Birds of Fury is a combined unit comprised of personnel from various Ukrainian military branches, including the 16th Regiment, Presidential Brigade, and 223rd UAV Battalion They specialise in operating large, plain-type drones.
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Drone Capabilities and Operations
🎦 00:41-01:01⏩
Alex describes the drones as having a 3-meter wingspan, requiring vans for transport. These "FireDome" drones are primarily used for striking targets behind enemy lines, with a range of up to 160 kilometers. They are also used for "remote mining" operations.
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Remote Mining
🎦 01:01-01:05⏩
Jonathan and Alex discuss the types of mines deployed, specifically smaller anti-vehicle mines called PTMs.
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FireDome Drone: Payload and Range
🎦 01:05-01:28⏩
Alex elaborates on the FireDome drone's capabilities, stating it can carry a payload of up to 6 kilograms and has a mission range of up to 160 kilometers. They typically operate around 30-40 kilometers behind enemy lines.
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Targetting
🎦 01:28-01:45⏩
The unit targets ammunition depots, fuel depots, vehicles, communication centers, and long-range artillery systems.
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Reconnaissance and Targeting Coordination
🎦 01:45-02:14⏩
Alex clarifies that while the FireDome drones have cameras for target confirmation, they rely on reconnaissance data from other units to identify and confirm targets before launching strikes. This collaborative approach ensures accurate targeting and minimizes collateral damage.
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Technological Innovations and Experiments
🎦 02:14-03:49⏩
The conversation shifts to the unit's experimentation with new technologies, including fiber optic-guided drones and computer vision-assisted aiming systems. Jonathan highlights footage of Ukrainian drones using autonomous targeting systems, which Alex confirms they are also developing. This technology allows drones to lock onto a target and execute a strike autonomously, making them more resilient to electronic warfare.
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Importance of the Van
🎦 03:49-04:13⏩
The need for a van to transport the large FireDome drones is emphasized, especially due to the often challenging terrain near launch and landing zones. The van's all-wheel drive capability is crucial for navigating these conditions.
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Operational Security
🎦 04:13-04:42⏩
Alex explains the van's black colour is intentional for operational security. It helps them avoid standing out as a military vehicle, particularly when operating further away from the frontline, where their presence might raise suspicions.
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Alex's Background and Service
🎦 04:42-05:12⏩
Jonathan inquires about Alex's background. Alex reveals that he volunteered to serve at the start of the conflict, initially joining the territorial defense forces before transitioning to special operations and aerial reconnaissance. Prior to the war, he owned a software development company.
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Software Development Expertise
🎦 05:12-05:26⏩
Alex shares how his software development skills are being utilized to create a system for managing the Birds of Fury unit's operations, demonstrating the diverse skillsets within the Ukrainian forces.
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Delta Battle Management System Integration
🎦 05:26-06:19⏩
The discussion centers around "Delta," a battle management system used by Ukrainian forces for coordinating operations. Alex's team is developing software that integrates with Delta, enabling better coordination between pilots, operators, and situation centers. This integration streamlines mission planning, target acquisition, and overall operational efficiency.
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NAFO Support and Gratitude
🎦 06:19-06:54⏩
Jonathan highlights the support from NAFO (North Atlantic Fellas Organization) fundraisers and their impact on the unit. Alex expresses gratitude for the donations, emphasizing that every dollar contributes to their mission of resisting the invasion. He specifically thanks Jake Broe, a prominent NAFO fundraiser, for the van and assures him it will be used effectively.
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Wrap up
🎦 06:54-07:20⏩
Jonathan concludes the interview by wishing Alex and the Birds of Fury unit success in their missions. He reiterates the importance of their work and the global support for Ukraine's fight for freedom.
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