In the heart of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where tension and uncertainty loom large, a silent revolution is underway. Instead of tanks and fighter jets, the skies are now dominated by drones of various sizes, reshaping the rules of engagement. Recently, I attended a seminar featuring Martti Lehto, Research Director at the Faculty of Information Technology of the University of Jyväskylä. Lehto illuminated this evolving battlefield, breaking down the basics of drone technology and discussing their current role in warfare. It was eye-opening to learn that drones, once primarily used for reconnaissance, are now versatile tools capable of launching attacks.

The conflict in Ukraine has become a focal point for drone activity, driven by the prolonged struggle for air superiority. Despite Russia’s air power advantage, Ukraine’s fortified defenses, supported by the West, have effectively countered Russian aerial dominance. In response, both sides have increasingly relied on drones to bypass integrated air defenses. For Ukraine, drones have emerged as a crucial equalizer in the conflict. Utilizing a range of technologies from the Turkish TB2 Bayraktar to improvised commercial drones, Ukraine has diversified its drone arsenal to outmaneuver its adversaries. Civilian support through grassroots crowdfunding,
termed “dronations” has further empowered Ukrainian forces with essential resources. Repurposed commercial drones, once used for leisure activities, now serve as cost-effective tools for precision strikes. Meanwhile, Russia faces hurdles in drone production due to Western sanctions, leading to reliance on Iranian-supplied drones like the Shahed-136 for military operations.
 
As drones become increasingly influential in shaping the conflict, their strategic advantages are evident. They offer reconnaissance capabilities without endangering lives, facilitate precise strikes in enemy territory, and furnish vital intelligence to ground troops. However, they pose a significant challenge to air defenses due to their small size and agility, rendering interception difficult. Despite investments in counter-drone measures such as electronic warfare and high-energy lasers by both sides, the drone war persists unabated. With ongoing technological advancements driving warfare’s evolution, the balance of power in the skies remains unpredictable.

But it is not all about tactics and technology. Lehto also made us think about the human cost of drone warfare. Behind every drone strike, there are real people affected, and it is essential not to forget that. As the seminar came to an end, it was clear that drones are here to stay and are changing the face of warfare, for better or for worse. In this dynamic environment, one certainty emerges: the era of drones has dawned, and their impact on the battlefield will only expand. However, there remains a pressing need to carefully consider their consequences and navigate this new reality responsibly.