Military Operations

Ukraine's "Brave1" drone system gamifies military operations.

Ukraine has unveiled the “Brave1” points-based drone procurement system, marking a major innovation in military logistics amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. Officially launched in April 2025 by the Ministry of Digital Transformation, Brave1 allows frontline units to earn points for confirmed strikes against Russian targets—such as six points per infantry kill, forty for a destroyed tank, and more for higher-value assets—by submitting verifiable drone footage. Units can then exchange these points on a marketplace often called the “military Amazon” for new drones and equipment, with options ranging from basic quadcopters to advanced loitering munitions. The initiative is credited with fostering decentralized decision-making, encouraging both competition among frontline brigades and innovation among Ukrainian weapons manufacturers. While young drone pilots, often shaped by gaming culture, quickly adapt to the system, some express unease over the gamification of lethal warfare. However, most acknowledge that this demand-led approach—supplementing traditional supply models—has significantly enhanced operational adaptability. The Brave1 system also releases monthly league tables showcasing top-performing units, amplifying motivation and strategic learning across the force as the war’s dynamics grow increasingly high-tech and data-driven.

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