The conflict in Ukraine has seen unprecedented use of drones by both sides, transforming the battlefield in ways that were previously unimaginable. Russia’s deployment of drones has been extensive.
The Russians have turned to domestically produced drones and imported systems alike to gain tactical advantages.
With Ukraine reshaping warfare, it is high time for the U.S. Army to evaluate whether it is up to the challenge of waging modern drone warfare.
Russia’s Drone Strategy in Ukraine
Russia has employed a variety of drones in Ukraine, ranging from small, commercially available models to more sophisticated military-grade systems. The primary roles of these drones include reconnaissance, artillery spotting, and direct attacks on enemy positions.
In terms of reconnaissance and surveillance, drones have been pivotal in providing real-time intelligence on Ukrainian troop movements and positions.
This capability has allowed Russian forces to plan and execute operations with greater precision.
Drones have significantly enhanced the effectiveness of Russian artillery. By providing accurate coordinates and real-time adjustments, drones increase the lethality and accuracy of artillery strikes.
Russia has also used drones for direct attacks, including kamikaze missions where drones are loaded with explosives and flown into targets.
This tactic has been particularly effective against high-value targets such as tanks and artillery pieces.
Additionally, Russia has integrated electronic warfare capabilities with its drone operations, using drones to jam Ukrainian communications and GPS signals. This has disrupted Ukrainian command and control, further complicating their defensive efforts.
Russian Drones Are No Joke
Russia has used commercially available drones that it modifies for military use. These drones are relatively inexpensive and can be deployed in large numbers. Meanwhile it uses more advanced drones, such as the Orlan-10, for reconnaissance and electronic warfare.
These drones are equipped with sophisticated sensors and communication systems, making them highly effective in their roles. Russia has also relied on drones imported from countries such as Iran.
The Shahed-136, for example, has been used in numerous kamikaze attacks, demonstrating the versatility and reach of Russia’s drone capabilities.
The Lancet-3 kamikaze drone is perhaps the most well known weapon in Russia’s current drone arsenal. Designed to be simple and cheap, the Lancet is based on a cylindrical fuselage with two pairs of X-shaped wings mounted at the front and rear.
It carries a payload of about 3 kilograms, with a range of about 40 kilometers.
Despite its simple and cheap design, the Lancet has proven invaluable to the Russians. It is responsible for the destruction of all sorts of systems, from armored personnel carriers and tanks to artillery systems.
Drones have allowed Russian forces to conduct operations with greater precision and effectiveness, reducing the risk to their personnel and increasing the pressure on Ukrainian defenses. The psychological impact of constant drone surveillance and attacks has also been significant, affecting the morale of Ukrainian troops.
Is the U.S. Ready for Drone-Centric Warfare?
While the U.S. has been a leader in drone technology, the conflict in Ukraine has highlighted several areas where improvements are needed to prepare for a drone-centric battlefield. The U.S. has recognized the growing threat posed by drones and has developed a comprehensive strategy to counter them. This includes the establishment of the Joint Counter-Small UAS Office, and the development of advanced counter-drone systems.
The U.S. Army has ramped up its counter-drone training programs, focusing on real-world combat scenarios. This includes live-fire drills and battlefield simulations to prepare soldiers to face drones.
The U.S. is investing in new technologies to detect and neutralize drones.
These include the development of systems like the Mobile Low, Slow Unmanned Aircraft Integrated Defense System (M-LIDS), which integrates radar, kinetic weapon systems, and electromagnetic warfare capabilities.
The U.S. military is working to integrate drones more effectively into its operations, employing them for reconnaissance, surveillance, and direct attacks, as well as developing new tactics to emphasize drones’ specific capabilities.
The Army Should Be Taking Notes
Despite these efforts, several challenges remain. The pace of technological advancements in drone technology is rapid, and the U.S. is undoubtedly behind the curb compared to Russia and Ukraine.
Effective coordination and integration of drone operations across different branches of the military remains a challenge.
Ensuring seamless communication and cooperation is essential for making the most of drone operations.
Developing and deploying advanced counter-drone systems can be costly. Balancing the allocation of resources between traditional military capabilities and new technologies is a critical challenge.
The conflict in Ukraine has underscored the transformative impact of drones on modern warfare. Russia’s extensive use of drones has provided significant tactical advantages, while also highlighting the need for robust counter-drone capabilities.
The U.S. has made significant strides in preparing for a drone-centric battlefield, but challenges remain.
By understanding the lessons from Ukraine and addressing the current gaps in preparedness, the U.S. can enhance its capabilities and maintain its strategic advantage in future conflicts.
About the Author: Isaac Seitz
Isaac Seitz, a 19FortyFive Defense Columnist, graduated from Patrick Henry College’s Strategic Intelligence and National Security program. He has also studied Russian at Middlebury Language Schools and has worked as an intelligence Analyst in the private sector.
