Buntar-3 UAV corrected missile strike on Shahed launch base at Donetsk Airport

The Ukrainian Buntar-3 reconnaissance drone has assisted in directing a missile strike against a Russian base used for the storage, preparation, and launch of Shahed strike drones at Donetsk Airport. The successful operation was reported by the manufacturer, Buntar Aerospace.

The strike, carried out on 7 March, involved units of the Missile Forces and Artillery working in conjunction with the Air Force of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. SCALP cruise missiles and ATACMS ballistic missiles were deployed for the attack. Target reconnaissance and fire correction were provided by operators of the 414th Separate Marine Unmanned Strike Aircraft Regiment ‘Madyar’s Birds’, who utilised the Buntar-3 unmanned system.

Ukrainian intelligence first identified preparations for this base in August 2025. It is reported that Russian forces established infrastructure at Donetsk Airport specifically for the deployment of Shahed and Gerbera drones. The site has been subject to regular strikes, including in November and December 2025.

The Buntar-3 reconnaissance system made its public debut in late May 2025, following testing and codification by the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine. The electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) drone is capable of sustained missions lasting up to 4 hours.

Designed to identify high-priority targets and correct fire at operational-tactical depths, the system maintains a reliable operational range of up to 100 km, while its optical suite enables target engagement from a distance of 15 km.