“Shaheds” with mines: an expert explains what this deadly combination is and how to recognize the danger
5 August 2025 18:26
Russia has modernized its Shahed kamikaze drones, and now they can drop cluster munitions with PTM-3 anti-tank mines. This is a new threat that can change the nature of warfare and make even rear areas deadly. What is the purpose of such attacks? How to recognize the new danger and avoid becoming a victim?
Russia has modernized its Shahed-type kamikaze drones by equipping them with PTM-3 anti-tank mine cassettes. This was reported on August 4 by Ukrainian radio technology specialist Serhiy “Flash” Beskrestnov.
“Two cassettes with PTM-3 are attached to the drone, they are fixed under the wings of the vehicle. This is a serious threat to both the military and civilians,” the expert wrote on his Telegram channel.
What is PTM-3 and why is it dangerous
The PTM-3 mine is activated by a magnetic detonator that responds to the approach of heavy equipment. It does not need to be dug or specially installed – just dropped on the ground. Aviation expert Kostyantyn Kryvolap in a commentary for
“It is almost invisible. An infantry fighting vehicle, a tank, a tractor passes by and it explodes,” Kryvolap said
The expert adds that a mine can be lying on a regular road, in a field or near the bases of military units, where equipment is usually concentrated.
Terror tactics: strike at the rescuers
One of the most cynical versions is the use of mine cassettes to hit those arriving after an attack.
“Who is the first to arrive at the scene after the attack? The State Emergency Service, ambulances. These are big cars, full of metal. And when they arrive, the explosion takes place,” emphasizes Kryvolap.
Thus, the occupiers can create “traps” for rescuers, endangering not only the army but also civilian services.
Can they target agriculture?
Another possible target is the fields and infrastructure of the agricultural sector. This could be an attempt to cause chaos and destroy critical facilities in the rear.
“The enemy’s motivation is not completely clear. But it may involve terrorist attacks on public roads or attacks on farms,” Beskrestnov said.
What a mine cassettelooks like
According to experts, one cassette measures approximately 30×10×10 cm and contains a cylindrical mine. It weighs about 5 kg.
“If there has been a Shahedi attack, it is very important not to approach the wreckage or strange objects. In such cases, the so-called non-technical reconnaissance works – communication with witnesses and checking the area by sappers,” emphasizes Kryvolap.
Such munitions can explode at the slightest attempt to move or neutralize them.
What the population should do: warning
Experts urge people to be vigilant and not to approach suspicious objects after drone attacks, especially if they are fields, roads or equipment that has just been damaged.
“Immediately notify the relevant services, do not approach by car or motorcycle, do not touch the debris with your hands. It is better to lose time than life,” Beskrestnov writes.
Thus, modernized “shahids” with PTM-3 mines are a new stage in terror tactics. They pose risks to both military and civilian infrastructure. The main goal is to sow fear, to make even the territories in the rear dangerous. This is not just a war. This is an attempt at systemic terror aimed at destroying the very notion of security.
