War as a Game: Ukraine’s E-Points System Rewards Troops for Killing Russian Forces
Ukraine has introduced a controversial and gamified incentive system for its military known as the “Army of Drones: Bonuses” or “E-Points”, where soldiers earn points for killing Russian troops or destroying enemy equipment. The system, which blurs the lines between warfare and video gaming, was first piloted last year and is now widely adopted across Ukrainian frontlines.
Video of every Ukrainian military success is made so that analysts sitting in Kio can confirm this
War Turned Into a Point-Scoring Game
Ukrainian forces document almost every strike or kill through drone footage, which is then analyzed in Kyiv. Based on confirmed actions, points are awarded to the respective military units. The more significant the target, the higher the points:
50 points for destroying a rocket launcher
40 points for tanks
20 points for damaging light vehicles
10 points for capturing a Russian soldier (more valuable than killing)
The program is spearheaded by Ukraine’s Digital Transformation Minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, who says the data gathered through the program helps allocate resources more effectively and boosts troop morale.
“It’s also about motivation,” says Fedorov. “When points change, soldiers’ morale often improves.”
How It Works
At Kyiv’s drone monitoring center, analysts confirm each drone video and assign points accordingly. Soldiers can then redeem these points through a military-specific online store, the Breu Market, which offers over 1,600 items, including medical supplies, drones, and even autonomous transport vehicles.
Initially, points could be converted into cash, but the new system focuses on directly equipping units through government-funded procurement.
Frontline Reactions: Mixed Feelings
Feedback from military personnel is varied:
Positive Views:
Some, like Daladimir from the 108th Defense Brigade, see the program as fair compensation for frontline sacrifices.
“This system helps us get what we need. It’s a way to strike back and stay equipped.”
Troops from the 22nd Mechanized Brigade echoed similar views, appreciating that the system brings motivation and material benefits.
Negative Reactions:
Others criticize the moral implications. A soldier known as “Snack” believes the system can’t solve deep-rooted morale issues.
Another soldier, Dmytro, argued it encourages unhealthy competition between units and exploitation—such as repeatedly targeting already-damaged Russian vehicles just to score more points.
“We’ve turned war and death into a profit-based game.”
Evolution of the System
The points system continues to evolve. As Russia shifts to using smaller patrol units and mobile tactics, Ukraine’s scheme now gives higher points for eliminating personnel than destroying vehicles.
Enemy drone operators and motorbike scouts are also highly valued targets. The data helps Ukrainian leadership adapt strategy in real time.
Brew One Market Place from where Ukraine military units can get military equipment for points.
From Death to Drones: The Breu Market
The Breu Market functions like an Amazon for soldiers—only accessible with e-points. Items like first-aid drones, surveillance systems, and battlefield gear can be ordered without delay, directly supporting combat operations.
Behind the Scenes
Analyst “Valodia” explains:
“There are two categories: ‘targeted’ and ‘destroyed’. Points differ for each. A captured soldier is more valuable than a dead one.”
Valodia and his team review thousands of videos each day, confirming losses and scoring actions. According to him, the most difficult targets remain artillery systems, often hidden beneath trees or underground.
Morality vs. Strategy
Critics argue the system commercializes death and undermines the ethics of war. Supporters, however, say it’s a creative wartime strategy that leverages Ukraine’s strengths against a larger adversary.
Concludes:
“This system is based on strategy and data. We adjust as needed, but the backbone is always military necessity.”
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