Electronic warfare systems detect and locate enemy drones and communication signals using radar and antennas. They then emit jamming signals, cutting off the connection between the drone and its operator used to control it remotely and maintain a video link. These devices can be mounted on vehicles, concealed in forward positions, or even carried as a backpack version, to protect infantry groups from enemy drones while they are on the move.
Multirotor drones can be modified to drop grenades or medium-caliber shells, depending on their size. The larger bomber drones usually fly at night, to both harass enemy troops and protect themselves, as their size makes them vulnerable to gunfire. They have mainly been used by the Ukrainians and have partly compensated for Ukraine’s relative lack of artillery, due to their high degree of precision.
Ground drones can play a role in reconnaissance. These small mobile robots, equipped with a camera and sensors, discreetly explore dangerous areas, spot enemy positions and transmit real-time images to command. Their ability to slip through trenches or under trees improves soldier safety while providing a precise view of the battlefield.
An aerial drone flies over the area of action of a ground drone and spots targets, enemy movements or potential dangers, allowing the latter to advance safely and accomplish its reconnaissance mission more effectively.
Reconnaissance drones
fly over a targeted area using cameras and sensors to detect enemy positions. They transmit real-time images and data to operators, who analyze the information to spot movements, equipment or enemy troops, enabling better operational planning.
Fiber optic cable FPV drones
transmit high-definition images in real time through a cable connected to the operator, thus bypassing radio jamming. This wired connection ensures precise control and stable video, essential for close reconnaissance missions and targeted strikes in a heavily disrupted environment.
Kamikaze drones are remotely piloted devices equipped with an explosive charge. They are sent directly at the enemy target and destroy it by crashing into it. Controlled remotely, these drones combine reconnaissance and attack, enabling precise strikes.
The “drone war” in Ukraine refers to the intensive and innovative use of drones by both sides, at all levels of the front. Reconnaissance, kamikaze or jamming drones continuously monitor, strike and disrupt. Combat is often conducted remotely, through screens, and the sky is sometimes so saturated that enemy drones collide in mid-flight.
Ukrainian and Russian forces sometimes launch
multiple FPV or reconnaissance drones simultaneously, coordinated to saturate enemy defenses or deceive electronic warfare measures (a decoy drone and a real drone).
Ground or aerial drones are used to mine the battlefield in a semi-autonomous or remote-controlled manner. These vehicles, often tracked or wheeled, transport explosive charges or anti-personnel/anti-tank mines that they deploy remotely in specific areas, including under enemy fire or in dangerous terrain.
