Center for Advanced Unmanned Technologies "Rubicon" was established in August 2024, following the directive of Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov. The primary objective of the center was to train highly skilled instructors in the realm of unmanned aviation, with the aim of transfering their expertise to personnel in active formations and military units. Additionally, the center aims to prepare UAV operators for combat operations, both individually and as part of teams.[2]
The center also develops and tests advanced drone systems and their implementation and conducts research into the field of artificial intelligence and explores how it can be utilized in robotic systems.[2]
The existence of Rubicon first became known in October 2024, when Belousov visited the center.[3]
Operations
According to Lostarmour, an OSINT analysys website, as of 17 September 2025 Rubicon drone operators have conducted more than 7,478 strikes, including drone interceptions.[4]
The unit has been active on the Donetsk, Kursk and Belgorod directions of the war.[5]
Ukrainian troops interviewed by NYT emphasize that Rubicon drone unit has dramatically shifted the battlefield, relentlessly striking supply lines and vehicles up to 15 kilometers behind the front—a tactical edge Kyiv struggles to counter. "The game changed when they came here," said one American volunteer, as Ukrainian forces face escalating losses and disrupted operations under Rubicon’s precision attacks.[6][7]
Equipment
Rubicon unit reportedly uses following equipment:[3]
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