Ukraine’s military intelligence (HUR) has reportedly “paralyzed” operations at Gaskar Group, a major drone supplier to the Russian military, through a significant cyberattack carried out with Ukrainian cyber volunteers. This operation allegedly compromised and destroyed vast amounts of technical data, aiming to cripple Russia’s drone production capabilities.
The cyberattack, reported on July 15 by the Kyiv Independent citing a source within HUR, targeted Gaskar Group’s internal network and server infrastructure. The intelligence agency claims to have gained access to over 47 terabytes of technical data crucial to the production of Russian drones, all of which was purportedly destroyed. This stolen data reportedly includes confidential employee questionnaires and, more critically, comprehensive technical documentation on drone manufacturing.
According to the HUR source, this sensitive technical documentation has been handed over to relevant specialists within the Ukrainian Defense Forces.
The cyberattack also allegedly disabled Gaskar Group’s internet services, production software, and accounting systems, effectively halting operations at their development center. While the Kyiv Independent noted it could not independently verify these claims and Gaskar Group’s website remained operational as of publication, other reports suggest denials from Gaskar Group regarding the attack’s effectiveness, contrasting with Ukrainian intelligence assertions.
The ongoing full-scale invasion has seen both Ukraine and Russia heavily invest in and utilize drone technology, fundamentally changing the nature of modern warfare.
Russian forces frequently launch hundreds of drones, often targeting Ukrainian civilian areas and critical infrastructure. The proliferation of various drone types, from hobbyist-grade modified for combat to advanced military designs, underscores their pivotal role in reconnaissance, strike operations, and even logistical support.
Cyberattacks have become a significant component of the conflict, employed extensively by both sides. Russian hackers have consistently targeted Ukrainian government institutions and businesses with disruptive cyberattacks, aiming to cripple various industries and public services. In this context, Ukraine’s alleged strike against Gaskar Group represents a strategic counter-cyber offensive, aimed at disrupting the supply chain of a crucial military asset for Russia’s ongoing war efforts.
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