Russia and Ukraine have been engaged in a protracted conflict in the Donbass region, with both sides employing increasingly sophisticated technology to gain the upper hand. In recent years, the use of drones has become a crucial component of the conflict, with both sides deploying large numbers of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for reconnaissance, surveillance, and even offensive operations. This has led to what many are calling the world’s first full-scale drone war, with UAVs becoming a primary means of engagement between the two sides.
The use of drones in the conflict has been driven by a number of factors. For Ukraine, drones provide a relatively low-cost way to gather intelligence and conduct reconnaissance, allowing them to monitor enemy movements and detect potential attacks. For Russia, drones offer a means of extending their military reach without directly involving ground troops, and can be used to support separatist forces in the region. However, the use of drones has also raised concerns about the potential for escalation and the risk of civilian casualties, as both sides have employed them in offensive operations that have resulted in significant damage and loss of life.