In the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, cyber-operators from Ukraine are actively engaged in combat operations, working alongside conventional forces. Led by Illia Vitiuk, the head of the Ukrainian Security Service's cyber division, these teams combine hacking skills with special forces tactics, infiltrating Russian systems, and utilizing advanced technology.

Key tools in their arsenal include AI-powered visual recognition systems that analyze data from various sources, including drones, human intelligence, satellites, and technical assets, to identify military targets and predict enemy intentions.

The cyber department also conducts operations like hacking surveillance cameras in occupied areas to monitor Russian troop movements and employs kamikaze drones to disable Russian cameras. These activities often require covert operations near the target.

Drones play a significant role in this conflict, used for both surveillance and offensive purposes, reflecting the evolving nature of warfare.

The SBU cyber team operates its drones and engages in tactics to disrupt Russian drones, including using sensors to detect them and sending commands to force landings. This requires close proximity to the action and necessitates security measures.

Military personnel near the capital are trained in drone operations, with an emphasis on avoiding detection. Russian cyber teams have also moved closer to the front lines to enhance communication and access to captured devices.

The cyber conflict has been intertwined with military operations, with cyberattacks preceding the full-scale invasion. These attacks targeted public websites and disrupted communication systems, underscoring the importance of controlling information flow.

Recent missile strikes on a TV tower and data center did not cripple Ukraine's operations due to data backup and support from Western technology companies. Ukrainian tech workers have also contributed by developing Griselda, a system that collects real-time intelligence from various sources.

Cyber and missile attacks have often been coordinated, posing ongoing challenges. Ukraine's cyber-defense is monitored 24/7, with the government as a primary target.

Illia Vitiuk's cyber team counters Russian hackers by infiltrating their systems and monitoring their activities. Moscow's significant cyber efforts against Ukraine have limited its capacity to target Western entities, but there is a warning that these attacks might be redirected if Ukraine falls.

Overall, Ukraine and its allies are exploring innovative ways to integrate technology into modern warfare to combat their Russian adversaries.