Ukraine's New 'Army of Drones' System Rewards Soldiers with Points for Killing Russian Forces

Ukraine has launched a video game-inspired incentive program, known as the 'Army of Drones,' to motivate its soldiers by awarding points for confirmed strikes against Russian targets. Soldiers must provide video proof of their actions, such as killing enemy troops or destroying equipment, to earn points, which can then be exchanged for military gear—including drones—on a new online 'Amazon-style' marketplace called Brave1 Market. The point system assigns different values based on the target: six points for eliminating an enemy soldier, 20 for damaging a tank, and 40 for destroying one, with larger rewards for high-value equipment. This marketplace increases transparency and streamlines the procurement process, allowing military units to quickly order needed technology, which the government delivers to the front lines. The system has reportedly spurred competition among Ukrainian units and led to increased operational effectiveness, with some elite groups accumulating enough points to secure large quantities of advanced drones. Officials say the program helps ensure that the most effective frontline units are prioritized for resupply, and logistical adjustments are ongoing to keep up with heightened demand.