In recent months, both Russia and Ukraine have been using cheap but powerful first-person-view (FPV) drones to attack each other’s equipment, according to a report by The Economist. These drones, controlled by operators wearing video game-esque goggles, have made the pilots prime targets beyond the frontlines.
Ukraine has had success flying these inexpensive drones over Russian equipment such as tanks and artillery, dropping explosives that result in significant damage and soldier losses. In fact, a Ukrainian drone pilot set a record by destroying a Russian tank from a distance of 22 km, operating from 18 km behind the front-line.
However, Russia has caught up in terms of drone technology, producing more sophisticated and numerous drones, as well as ramping up its electronic warfare systems to defend against Ukraine’s attacks. Both sides have had to adapt in real-time, with the war’s reliance on drone warfare necessitating the use of equipment that can detect and defend against electronic warfare.
Despite operating from behind the frontlines, drone controllers often leave an electronic trace, allowing the enemy to pinpoint and track them. This makes being a drone pilot extremely dangerous, contrary to the belief that the work is safer further back.
In addition to targeting drone pilots, Russia also employs high-precision artillery, mines, and glide bombs to take out the enemy. Ukraine, on the other hand, primarily relies on volunteers and donations to control and supply its drone stock. The reliance on drone warfare has resulted in increased casualties for Ukraine, with Russian FPV drones destroying multiple vehicles and causing significant losses.
Overall, the use of drones in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine has become a critical aspect of the battlefield. Both sides are constantly adapting their strategies and defenses to gain an upper hand in this drone-centric warfare.
