UK-made drones strike military targets inside Russia for first time

British-manufactured drones have been used to strike targets inside mainland Russia for the first time, according to military sources. Two separate UK companies built the aircraft, which have successfully hit military and industrial sites — including oil refineries and warehouses belonging to Wildberries, Russia's largest online retailer. The strikes are reported to have caused more than £35 billion in economic damage.

Confirmed by Military Sources

A well-placed military source confirmed the use of UK drones to the BBC. The story was first reported by the Sunday Times. Russia's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova had previously stated that drones using UK components had attacked Russian territory, including a fuel depot in the Kamensky District of Rostov Region.

British Storm Shadow cruise missiles had previously been authorised for use against Russian-controlled territory, but this new phase of drone operations is described as having a more decisive operational impact.

UK Government Statement

The Ministry of Defence said its support for Ukraine is unwavering and that Britain would stand by Kyiv until it wins. A spokesperson said: We are committed to providing the equipment Ukraine needs to defend itself against Putin's illegal invasion. This includes over 150,000 drones this year, cutting-edge Stone Cloak devices that hinder Russian air defences and innovative low-cost cruise missiles. The MoD announced in April the largest-ever UK drone supply package, including long-range strike devices.

Moscow Confirms Mass Drone Assault

Moscow's mayor confirmed that about 600 Ukrainian drones were launched toward the city overnight on Sunday. Roughly a third were intercepted. The Wildberries warehouse in Koledino, 25 kilometres from the Kremlin, was struck and three people were injured.