27 january, 2026 | 193

Reconnaissance UAVs: How the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine views the battlefield

Fixed-wing reconnaissance drones are a primary tool for searching, detecting, destroying, and adjusting strikes against enemy positions, weapons, and equipment. Areas of particular focus include enemy artillery and UAV crews.

Військовослужбовець 1-го корпусу НГУ «Азов» тримає деталі для розвідувального БПЛА

Військовослужбовець 1-го корпусу НГУ «Азов» дістає деталі розвідувального БПЛА з кейсу

Військовослужбовці 1-го корпусу НГУ «Азов» тримають у руках розвідувальний БПЛА

Військовослужбовець 1-го корпусу НГУ «Азов» готує до вильоту розвідувальний БПЛА

The photos show the work of the crew operating the Ukrainian Hor unmanned aerial system of the Unmanned Systems Battalion of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine. One of the battalion’s key missions is to provide intelligence to Corps units operating on the Dobropillia axis.

Over the course of a single day, fighters can identify dozens of enemy targets. Their coordinates are then transmitted to the Corps’ strike assets for follow-on engagement.

1 corps azov 1 corps ngu azov azov corps azov dobropilla sector drones national guard of ukraine reconnaissance uavs unmanned systems battalion unmanned systems battalion azov

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FAQ

Unlike the operational and tactical group model, a corps commander can exercise command and control over subordinate units.

The corps system enables more efficient management of combat forces at the operational-tactical level. It addresses the issue of fragmented command structures, strengthens unit cohesion, improves combat effectiveness, and ensures a unified chain of command — critical for conducting large-scale combat operations.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is responsible for key tasks related to both defensive and offensive operations in the frontline sector designated by the High Command, including:

Liberating the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine;
Destroying enemy personnel and equipment;
Increasing the combat effectiveness of National Guard units and advancing the profession of arms;
Implementing standards and exchanging experience.

The First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine is commanded by Brigadier General Denys “Redis” Prokopenko.

The following units operate as part of the corps:

1st Presidential Operational Brigade “Bureviy”;
8th Artillery Brigade “Harmash”;
12th Special Forces Brigade “Azov”;
14th Operational Brigade “Chervona Kalyna”;
15th Operational Brigade “Kara Dag”;
20th Operational Brigade “Lubart”.

Yes. Units within the corps continue recruiting volunteers. As Azov’s responsibilities and operational scope grow, its recruitment center network will serve the needs of all Corps units. Azov Brigade’s recruitment centers will now be joined by representatives from other brigades that make up the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine.

The 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov serves as the foundation for the newly established First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine. However, the corps itself is led by a corps-level command group formed based on the officer cadre of the 12th Brigade.

Reconnaissance UAVs: How the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine views the battlefield

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FAQ

Why was the corps system introduced?

What tasks will the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine carry out?

Who is the commander of the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

What units comprise the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine?

Does the First Corps Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine recruit new service members?

Is the 12th Special Forces Brigade Azov of the National Guard of Ukraine expanding into a corps?

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Denys “Redis” Prokopenko – brigadier general