When it comes to technology, the war in Ukraine provides a stark contrast. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) – commonly referred to as drones – have emerged as pivotal instruments in this significant conflict. However, despite the use of advanced technology, front-line soldiers have resorted to tactics such as digging trenches, reminiscent of past world wars.
While both parties in the conflict are using guided missiles, this concept is not entirely new. Modern precision-guided weapons have their origins in the latter part of the Second World War. Although these weapons have significantly improved accuracy in hitting targets, there remains a notable margin of human error in designating targets for these weapons.
What distinguishes the conflict in Ukraine is the absence of a technological imbalance that was evident in smaller wars of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Unlike previous conflicts with one-sided advantages, both Russia and Ukraine have access to and are continuously advancing new and old technologies, without one side maintaining an overall technological edge.
Drones and Warfare
Large drones have been utilized in warfare for several years, with the United States being a prominent user of drones such as the Reaper in Afghanistan. On the other hand, Russia made use of large drones for reconnaissance in Syria during its support for the Assad government. However, the war in Ukraine has seen a proliferation of drones – both large and small. This includes the use of Iranian-developed “suicide” drones like the Shahed, which can penetrate deep into enemy territory.
At the start of the war, the Ukrainian side had a distinct advantage in drone warfare. However, this advantage has since shifted in favor of Russia, who have managed to produce and import large quantities of drones and develop effective countermeasures against Ukrainian drones. Ukrainian naval drones have emerged as a significant challenge for the Russian navy, as evidenced in the recent sinking of the large patrol ship Sergei Kotov.
Missile Technology
Unlike previous conflicts, the involvement of both Russia and Ukraine in the war has provided both sides with access to guided missiles. For instance, missiles such as the Russian Iskander and Anglo-French Storm Shadow have proven to be effective at striking targets located deep within enemy territory. Drones have often been employed in locating such targets.
In addition, anti-tank missiles such as the Russian Kornet and the U.S.-supplied Javelin on the Ukrainian side have been effectively used in destroying tanks. Although anti-tank missiles are not a new concept, the versions used today are much more sophisticated than their predecessors, showcasing enhanced targeting capabilities.
New and Old Technologies
While new technologies have significantly impacted the nature of warfare in Ukraine, many traditional elements of ground warfare are still applicable. Regardless of the technology employed, infantry still has to move in and occupy territory, engaging in close-quarter combat. Furthermore, soldiers often continue to engage in close combat, much like in the First World War.
The conflict in Ukraine demonstrates that while modern technology may be new, its underlying function remains similar to that of old methods. Similar to the observation balloons used to direct artillery fire in the First World War, drones in the current conflict serve a similar purpose. However, as technology advances, the race to counter it also intensifies. The Russian armed forces have achieved success in jamming the link between drone operators and their drones. This constant technological battle raises questions about what’s next, with the development of autonomous drones using AI and subsequent countermeasures expected to shape the future of warfare.
The conflict is a testament to the continuous development of new technologies as well as countermeasures, juxtaposed with the use of traditional methods. New and old technologies will continue to coexist, redefining the landscape of modern warfare.
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