Drones and robotics should be embraced as a significant aspect of modern warfare, Ukrainian soldiers advised their Israeli counterparts, explaining that the systems provide solutions to many battlefield challenges that the Jewish state could face.
A Ukrainian Jewish reconnaissance drone operator, who had worked in several different military disciplines before the role, said that “the future of war is drones.”
The operator contended that drones can replace infantry, logistics vehicles, artillery, reconnaissance planes, and even snipers.
A bullet cannot be controlled after being fired, argued the soldier, making drones more precise than a sniper’s rifle.
Drones are also cost-effective, costing $500 to $1000 to disable or destroy a tank, and don’t require much maintenance.
Another Jewish soldier said in combat, one fighter could defeat many opponents with drones, making the systems a force multiplier.
Constantly fielding drones was also a defense against automated enemy aerial vehicle activity, he said, allowing forces to detect their approach.
Senior officer: Robots only way to approach dense urban fighting and tunnels
A senior officer suggested that robots were the only way to approach dense urban fighting and tunnels like those Israeli forces encountered in Gaza. The alternative to such platforms, sending in men, often results in too many casualties. In general, he viewed the systems as a substitute not only for personnel but also as a universal answer to many battlefield problems.
Ukraine was developing new defensive systems against drones like Israel, he said, and predicted that jamming systems and electronic warfare would grow in importance. Closer to Ukraine’s front lines, jamming devices can be seen on nearly every military vehicle, even on anti-aircraft gun emplacements.
According to a mid-level logistics officer, drones had begun to play a role in delivering supplies and equipment to dangerous areas. Frontline deliveries were made by foot, light vehicles, robots, and drones, as large vehicles were either too conspicuous or unable to cross war-ravaged terrain. By foot, a seven-kilometer trek to deliver supplies could take between one and three days. In extreme situations, if forces are surrounded, drones could be used to provide ammunition and food.
Another officer said that if one wants peace, one must prepare for war. Both Israel and Ukraine had learned that no state could pay or trust another country to ensure their protection.