How the Ukraine Conflict is Forever Changing the Scope of Warfare

There are currently two sides to the ongoing war in Ukraine. One involves the rather static trench battles that are often reminiscent of the stalemates that occurred during the First World War. The other is associated with a rapid adoption of technological innovations on both sides; one of the most important being associated with the use of FPV (first-person view) drones. Why are these seemingly innocuous gadgets changing the face of modern warfare?

Fiction Becomes Reality

First and foremost, a tactical drone with autonomous capabilities can loiter overhead for extended periods of time. This makes it difficult for the enemy to conduct operations in the open, as he is always concerned about what may be lurking immediately above. These very same drones may likewise be employed as area denial weapons; their mere presence striking fear into those below, and causing them to hesitate during important operational movements. Either way, the main takeaway point is that the controller of these drones is often well out of harm's way; perhaps located up to 20 kilometres from the actual conflict.

Two Sides of the Same Coin

Another interesting point associated with modern drone warfare is the game of "cat and mouse" that both Russia and Ukraine have been playing. One example involves the use of jamming technology placed atop Russian infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks such as the vaunted T-90. As soon as these techniques were implemented, Ukrainians were already thinking of ways to circumvent their presence. This is why battlefield tactics alone may no longer be enough to win the conflict. It is often what occurs behind the scenes that could ultimately determine the result of any skirmish.

The Younger Generation

Similar to children in the west, Ukrainian youths are highly familiar with gaming consoles such as Xbox and PlayStation. It just so happens that the controls associated with many drones are similar in nature. This is why we have witnessed a massive influx of young military drone operators. While these individuals might not have much experience with an AK-47, this matters little if they can accurately detonate an RPG-7 warhead within the confines of an otherwise heavily armoured tank.

These are some of the main reasons why the use of first-person drone technology will have a lasting impact on the world of warfare. As both nations continue to update their military doctrines accordingly, the only remaining question involves which one will be able to remain ahead of the curve.