Elevated radiation levels detected on debris of drone used in attack on Chernihiv Oblast – photos
The Security Service of Ukraine has reported that its counterintelligence officers and investigators detected elevated radiation levels on fragments of a Russian attack drone used in a strike on Chernihiv Oblast in April 2026.
Source: Security Service of Ukraine (SSU)
Quote: "Counterintelligence officers and investigators of the Security Service uncovered elevated radiation levels on fragments of a Russian missile that the occupiers had integrated into a modified Geran-2 attack drone during the attack on Chernihiv Oblast on the night of 6-7 April this year."
Details: According to the Security Service, the fragments belonged to an R-60 air-to-air missile found near the village of Kamka.
Russian forces reportedly use such missiles during large-scale attacks to target Ukrainian aircraft and helicopters intercepting Russian drones.
During radiation reconnaissance operations conducted in the immediate vicinity of the drone wreckage and missile fragments, experts recorded gamma radiation levels of 12 microsieverts per hour, significantly above the natural background level and potentially dangerous to human health.
SSU, together with units of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine and the Ukrainian defence forces, rendered the missile's warhead safe and transported it to a radioactive waste storage facility.
Tests established that the missile's warhead contained striking elements made of depleted uranium, identified as uranium-235 and uranium-238.
The Security Service has opened a pre-trial investigation under Article 438 of Ukraine's Criminal Code (war crimes), under the procedural supervision of the Chernihiv Oblast Prosecutor's Office.
Given the toxicity and radioactivity of depleted uranium, the Security Service urged citizens to exercise extreme caution if they encounter fragments of drones, missiles or other munitions.
"The greatest danger comes from damaged or burned munitions, as they may release radioactive dust hazardous to both people and the environment," the statement said.
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