Technology (General)

Drones have played a key role in the war in Ukraine. The development of technology is fast and artificial intelligence offers new opportunities. Both Russia and Ukraine develop drones themselves and also acquire them from other countries.

There is a constant race in the development of technology, where both parties develop new applications and innovations.

The armed forces of Russia and Ukraine have increased the use of explosive drones considerably. For the current year, the production volumes are possibly already more than one million drones.

Russia’s high-flying reconnaissance drones and so-called lurking munitions currently pose a significant problem for Ukraine, says military expert Emil Kastehelmi in Iltalehti’s situation studio.

Stalking projectiles are drones equipped with explosives, typically launched by catapults. They fly high above the battlefield and destroy valuable targets that conventional FPV drones have a hard time reaching.

Even if Ukraine detects the drones, it is difficult to destroy them, according to Kastehelmi. They fly beyond the reach of most light anti-aircraft weapons and there are not enough more expensive missile systems in use.

As a solution, Ukraine has developed high-flying combat drones.

According to Kastehelmi, Ukrainian drone groups have recently been sharing more and more videos of high-altitude drops.

– In addition to disrupting intelligence, the ability to counter Russia’s lurking missiles is really important for Ukraine. It significantly weakens Russia’s intelligence and strike capabilities, Kastehelmi estimates.

You can watch the 105th episode of Tilannestudio from this link.

The Lancet folding-wing drone used by Russia. Sergey Dzyuba / Alamy Stock Photo