November 17th 2024.
The use of drones as weapons of war has been a point of concern in recent times, especially in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. These unmanned aerial vehicles are not just being used for surveillance, but have been equipped with explosives and ball bearings to cause maximum damage. In fact, Russia has been producing hundreds of thermobaric drones, also known as vacuum bombs, which have the capability to cause serious injuries such as collapsed lungs, crushed eyeballs, and even brain damage.
These drones are particularly effective in targeting fortified buildings and underground facilities, making them a preferred choice for military operations. According to David Albright, an expert at the Institute for Science and International Security, the use of ball bearings in these drones makes them even more destructive when they strike buildings. This has been a cause of concern for Ukraine, as these drones have already caused havoc since their deployment in 2022.
Serhii Beskrestnov, a Ukrainian electronics expert, has estimated that these thermobaric drones now make up about 3% to 5% of all drones used in the conflict. He also highlighted their potential to cause mass destruction, especially in densely populated areas. The physical effects of these weapons, even on those caught outside the initial blast site, have been described as fearsome by Arthur van Coller, an expert in international humanitarian law.
Apart from these thermobaric drones, Russia has also been producing hundreds of decoy drones as part of their Operation False Target, which aims to overwhelm the Ukrainian defenses. This strategy was developed in 2022 and is being carried out through the use of unarmed decoys that are indistinguishable from the armed ones on radar. This has put the Ukrainian forces in a difficult position, as they have to make quick decisions on how to respond to these drones in order to save lives and protect critical infrastructure.
The decoys are being produced alongside the armed Iranian-designed drones, also known as Shahed drones, in a factory located in Russia's Alabuga Special Economic Zone. This factory, which was originally set up to attract businesses and investment, has now shifted its focus to military production after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The production of these drones has been on the rise, with Russia launching 80% more drones in October compared to August. This has raised concerns about the possibility of these armed drones deviating from their course and causing devastating damage in residential areas.
The use of drones as weapons has created a sense of uncertainty and fear among the civilian population in Ukraine. The constant buzzing of drones and the sound of air defenses and rifle shots have become a regular occurrence in the country. With the recent re-election of Donald Trump, there are fears that the US support for Ukraine may be in doubt, making the situation even more precarious. However, the Ukrainian forces continue to defend their territory and protect their people from the relentless attacks of these drones.
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