Summary
This report examines the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence’s e-points incentive system, known as the Army of Drones Bonus, which has become a central feature of Ukraine’s military logistics and motivation strategy since 2022. The system integrates digital platforms—DELTA, Brave1 Market, and DOT-Chain Defence—to reward frontline units with points for verified battlefield achievements, which can be redeemed for military equipment. Points are assigned based on the operational value of actions, with a rigorous multi-stage verification process ensuring integrity. The system’s evolution has included the introduction of unit-level leaderboards, competitive dynamics, and feedback mechanisms such as equipment ratings and real-time analytics. Ethical and legal considerations, including compliance with International Humanitarian Law and the risks of perverse incentives, are addressed through safeguards and ongoing policy adjustments. The e-points system represents a significant innovation in military procurement, gamification, and accountability, with implications for both operational effectiveness and the ethical conduct of war.
Detailed Report
1. System Structure and Administration
The e-points incentive system is administered by the Defence Procurement Agency in partnership with the Ministry of Digital Transformation and the Brave1 defence technology cluster. It operates through three integrated digital platforms: DELTA (for battlefield evidence and operational data), Brave1 Market (for equipment selection and points redemption), and DOT-Chain Defence (for contracting, payment, and logistics). This integration enables seamless verification, procurement, and delivery of equipment to frontline units, with all documentation managed digitally.
2. Point Values for Battlefield Actions
Points are awarded to units for verified battlefield achievements, with values reflecting the operational significance of each action. As of 2025–2026, destroying an enemy tank earns 40 points, damaging a tank 20 points, and eliminating a multiple rocket launch system up to 50 points. Killing an enemy soldier is typically worth 6 points, while capturing one can yield 60–120 points, reflecting a multiplier of 10–20 times compared to a kill. Killing a Russian drone operator is valued at 25 points. Non-lethal actions, such as evacuating wounded comrades using uncrewed ground vehicles, are increasingly prioritized, often earning more points than lethal actions. The system also includes multipliers for innovative or high-value actions, with point values subject to monthly review and adjustment.
3. Multi-Stage DELTA Verification Process
Verification is central to the system’s integrity. Units submit video or photographic evidence—usually from drone cameras—into the DELTA platform. The process involves initial screening by Brave1 experts, analytical review for operational details (including geolocation and time stamps), and final validation by a panel of analysts. Only after successful verification are points credited to the unit’s account, ensuring that rewards are based on legitimate, lawful actions.
4. Redemption Workflow
Authorized unit personnel access Brave1 Market using DELTA credentials to view their e-points balance and select equipment. Orders are placed digitally and processed through DOT-Chain Defence, which manages contracting and logistics. Advance payments of up to 70% are permitted to expedite production. Delivery to frontline units typically occurs within 10 days, with digital acceptance certificates completing the supply cycle.
5. Chronological Evolution (2022–2026)
The e-points system originated in the informal, ad hoc incentive practices of 2022, evolving through the April 2023 launch of the Brave1 cluster and the August 2024 formal introduction of the Army of Drones Bonus. By mid-2025, the system was fully integrated across DELTA, Brave1 Market, and DOT-Chain Defence, with over 400 units participating and the value of equipment delivered via e-points exceeding $460 million by early 2026. The scope of eligible actions and redeemable equipment has expanded continuously, reflecting frontline feedback and shifting operational priorities.
6. Gamification and Competition
The system incorporates gamification features modelled on competitive video games, including unit-level leaderboards and the Pidrahuyka online results board. Points are awarded to units, not individuals, fostering teamwork and collective responsibility. Inter-unit rivalry is structured through public and internal rankings, with monthly updates conferring prestige and influencing resource allocation. Motivational psychology principles—such as immediate feedback, social visibility, scalable challenges, and points multipliers for innovation—are embedded in the design. Official commentary frames the system as a motivational and procurement tool, not a game, emphasizing its role in boosting morale and operational effectiveness.
7. Feedback Mechanisms and Data-Driven Procurement
Frontline units provide structured feedback on equipment through the DOT-Chain Defence five-point rating system and Brave1 Market product reviews. Manufacturers access real-time analytics dashboards showing product performance, market share, and operational outcomes. Procurement demand is generated automatically based on battlefield data, with approximately 80% of funds allocated to proven solutions and 20% to experimental technologies. Monthly rebalancing meetings with commanders ensure that point values and procurement priorities remain aligned with evolving needs. Direct communication channels between manufacturers and units facilitate rapid iteration and adaptation.
8. Ethical and Legal Considerations
The e-points system is designed to comply with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the laws of armed conflict. Legal analysis indicates that awarding points for lawful military actions does not violate the prohibition on outlawry or other IHL principles. The video evidence requirement serves both as a compliance mechanism and as documentation for potential war crimes investigations. Risks of perverse incentives—such as score-chasing, target stacking, and dehumanization—are mitigated through collective rewards, rigorous verification, and regular policy adjustments. Equity concerns for less-resourced units are addressed by expanding eligible activities and reviewing the system for fairness. The Ukrainian government has published a voluntary IHL report and adjusted point structures to prioritize life-saving actions. NGO and legal scholar assessments generally view the system as lawful and innovative, provided safeguards are maintained.
Conclusion
The Ukrainian e-points incentive system represents a transformative approach to military procurement, motivation, and accountability. Its integration of digital platforms, gamification, and feedback mechanisms has accelerated adaptation and improved operational effectiveness, while ongoing ethical and legal oversight ensures alignment with humanitarian standards. The system’s evolution offers valuable lessons for the future of military incentives and digital warfare.