Additional Coverage:
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In the Lviv region of Ukraine, Ukrainian military personnel are being trained at a specialized school to operate drones equipped with bombs, as of May 2023.
The technology of warfare continues to evolve, with Russia introducing its fiber-optic drones to counteract signal jamming and electronic interference. This latest technology, however, has its limitations and may not be suitable for all combat scenarios. As the drone technology race intensifies, both Ukraine and Russia are rapidly developing and deploying new capabilities to outmaneuver each other.
Recent developments have seen Russia employing drones that are controlled by fiber-optic cables, providing resistance to electronic warfare tactics that have affected drone operations on both sides. This technological adaptation offers a more reliable and jam-resistant method of control, allowing for clearer video transmissions, which is critical for operational precision. These drones, connected via a cable that unwinds as the drone operates, are part of Russia’s tactical response to Ukrainian defenses.
The design and operational strategy of these wired drones resemble other tethered systems like the US-made anti-tank TOW missile. This approach provides a stable connection and allows the operator to navigate with a greater degree of control. However, while they solve the problem of jamming, these drones come with their own set of challenges, such as limited range and mobility due to the tether.
Stacie Pettyjohn, director of the defense program at the Center for a New American Security, noted the strategic value of these drones, particularly in scenarios where electronic interference is a significant threat. Despite their potential setbacks, such as the possibility of the tether snagging or being cut, the presence of these drones in combat has been confirmed through social media and other open-source intelligence reports.
Furthermore, German and Chinese companies are also exploring this technology. A German company, HIGHCAT, announced plans to test its fiber-optic drone in Ukraine, which includes features designed to prevent the cable from tangling, thus addressing one of the major drawbacks observed in earlier models.
The use of these wired drones signifies a broader trend in the ongoing military conflict between Russia and Ukraine, where both sides continuously adapt to each other’s technological progresses and countermeasures. This ongoing innovation cycle suggests that drones, whether wired or autonomous, will remain a critical component of military strategy in this conflict, continually evolving to meet the demands of modern warfare.