Drones Transform Warfare in Russia-Ukraine Conflict

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has seen an unprecedented rise in the use of drones, marking a significant evolution in modern warfare. Over the past five years, uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs) have become crucial for military operations, with hundreds or even thousands deployed daily along the frontlines. The integration of cheap, mass-produced consumer technology has enabled militaries to adapt commercial drone designs into highly effective tools for combat.

First-Person View Drones Take Center Stage

Among the various types of drones in use, first-person view (FPV) drones have gained prominence due to their agility and effectiveness. Pilots control these drones remotely, often donning virtual reality goggles to navigate their flight paths. Their speed and maneuverability allow them to target armoured vehicles, intercept enemy helicopters, and execute ambushes on ground troops. The Russian military primarily employs the Molniya-2, a drone that can be constructed for under $1,000 using mostly commercial components. Russia aims to manufacture two million FPV drones within this year alone.

To counteract the risks posed by radio jamming, Russian forces have adopted an innovative approach by controlling these drones via fibre optic cables that extend up to 40 kilometers in length. This adaptation has resulted in battlefields strewn with thousands of thin fibre optic lines. Additionally, FPV drones are starting to integrate artificial intelligence, initially to assist pilots and eventually to enhance autonomous capabilities.

Diverse Drone Types Expand Military Strategies

Multicopter drones represent another category that has proven versatile in various operational roles. These drones can perform reconnaissance, engage in electronic warfare, and deliver payloads, such as small bombs or anti-personnel mines. Many of these systems are modified commercial drones, including popular models like the Chinese-made DJI Mavic 3 and Autel EVO II. Larger, purpose-built drones like the MiS-150 and MiS-35 can carry payloads of up to 15 kilograms, while the in-development Buran hexacopter is designed to transport a staggering 80 kilograms.

On the other hand, winged drones serve different strategic purposes, classified into one-way (kamikaze) and reusable categories. Russia has heavily relied on the Geran series for long-range strikes against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. By late June 2023, Russia had launched approximately 29,000 Geran drones, with production capabilities reaching 2,700 units monthly. These drones also function as decoys to distract air defenses, extending their tactical utility beyond direct engagement.

Reusable drones such as the Orlan-10 and ZALA 421 contribute to battlefield surveillance and coordination of attacks. The Orlan-10 has even evolved to serve as a mothership for launching smaller FPV drones, while the ZALA Lancet operates as a loitering munition, capable of identifying and striking targets upon command.

Counter-drone technology has emerged as an essential focus for military forces. The challenge lies in effectively neutralizing drones, which are typically small, fast, and numerous. Current counter-drone systems include a mix of warning sensors, electronic jammers, and missile systems. Although fighter aircraft can counter larger, aircraft-like drones, smaller FPV and multicopter drones remain difficult to target. Recent advancements in air-launched rocket systems enable fighter jets to potentially down multiple Geran drones in a single mission.

As drones continue to proliferate and diversify, the balance between mass-produced offensive platforms and effective defensive measures will significantly influence future conflicts. The military landscape is evolving rapidly, as seen in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, where drone technology is reshaping traditional warfare paradigms.