260th Territorial Defense Brigade “Khortytsia”,

The 260th Territorial Defense Brigade “Khortytsia” of the Armed Forces of Ukraine is a formation established in 2022 as part of the rapid expansion of the Territorial Defense Forces during the full-scale invasion. Created to strengthen local and regional defense capabilities, the brigade was formed from a combination of reservists, volunteers, and experienced military personnel. While Territorial Defense units were initially intended for security and defensive roles, the 260th Brigade has adapted to the realities of modern conflict, taking on a broader range of tasks including frontline support and direct combat operations alongside regular forces.

The brigade is commanded by Serhii Sobko, under whose leadership it has developed its organizational structure and operational effectiveness. Like many Territorial Defense formations, it has focused on building cohesion, improving coordination, and integrating its personnel into a unified and capable fighting force. This has allowed the brigade to transition from a primarily defensive role to a more versatile formation able to respond to evolving battlefield demands.

A significant aspect of the 260th Territorial Defense Brigade’s operational capability is its use of unmanned aerial systems to enhance situational awareness and combat efficiency. The unit actively employs reconnaissance drones to monitor enemy activity, gather real-time intelligence, and support coordination with artillery and maneuver units. In addition, strike UAVs are utilized to engage enemy personnel, equipment, and defensive positions, increasing the effectiveness of operations while minimizing risks to personnel. This integration of drone technology enables the brigade to operate more effectively in modern combat conditions, reflecting the broader transformation of Ukraine’s Territorial Defense Forces into adaptive and technologically capable units.