Increased Drone Production and Offensive Actions by Russia and Ukraine
HOST A MARTÍNEZ:
Let's cut the bull and talk turkey about Ukraine's recent drone strikes obliterating Russian warplanes and Russia's retaliation. It's clear as day that both sides have amped up their unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) game. Russia, in response to Ukraine's attack, has been throwing down a barrage of their own drone strikes - and in heavy force, mind you. Just a few days ago, they leveled the heaviest assault of the war so far.
So, Neil, let's dive into the shady nitty-gritty of these Russian drone strikes. What's their deal?
NPR'S NATIONAL SECURITY CORRESPONDENT GREG MYRE:
Well, Alex, Russia unleashed another rounds-a-plenty of drone attacks last night, and Kyiv was the main target. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy didn't mince words, calling it one of the heaviest attacks yet on the capital. It's worth mentioning that the night before, Russia whacked Ukraine with nearly 500 drone strikes nationwide. Now picture this: we've had multiple Russian nighttime attacks in recent days, boasting 300, 400, and now 500 drones - the most extensive to date.
Here's the catch: Ukraine shoots down or electronically jams most of these incoming Russian drones, but around 10% slip through and can do some serious damage.
MARTÍNEZ:
Whoa. So how has Russia created such a menacing drone fleet?
MYRE:
So, Alex, three years ago when they launched their full-scale invasion, Russia's drone collection was rather puny. But as they quickly understood the integral role UAVs would play in the war, they had to act fast. They hatched a plan: they started buying Iranian drones, but they weren't exactly fabulous, and Iran wasn't pumping out enough to keep up with demand.
So Russia flicked a wad of cash the Iranian way and began making a Russian version dubbed the Geran. Let me spill the tea: I spoke with Omar Al-Ghusbi at the Center for Advanced Defense Studies in Washington, a research institution. Listen up: he's recently penned a report on the Russian drone program.
OMAR AL-GHUSBI:
Listen close, mate, because you're gonna wanna know this. The most groundbreaking and revolutionary thing about the Geran model of drones is their mass production capability, as well as their capacity to strike targets from afar.
MARTÍNEZ:
Alright, so does Ukraine and Russia employ drones in similar ways on the battlefield?
MYRE:
No, Alex, they don't play the drone game the same way at all. Russia goes for sheer numbers. They aim to inundate Ukraine's air defenses with endless barrages of drones, intending to divert attention while faster, more powerful Russian missiles can slip through undetected.
Ukraine, on the other hand, prefers stealthy attacks originating from land, air, or sea. With cheap, lightweight drones, Ukraine keeps an unrelenting pressure on Russian ground forces, making it increasingly difficult for these guys to gather in large numbers for an operation. Ukraine's drones have developed quite the reputation for attacking Russian forces from unexpected angles. And just a month ago, a Ukrainian drone downed a Russian warplane, marking a historic first.
MARTÍNEZ:
Greg, is it safe to say at this juncture that this is the first war where drones have played such a significant role?
MYRE:
Absolutely, Alex. It's a slam dunk. Initially, artillery accounted for most deaths and injuries, and the battle looked reminiscent of trench warfare akin to World War I. But now, Ukraine says 70% of casualties on both sides are inflicted by drones. In merely a few short years, drones have evolved from the realm of high-end technology with specialized uses to downright common and cheap weapons that lit up the battlefield. Say cheese, because this is the drone age.
Technology has played a significant role in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with both sides significantly enhancing their unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capabilities. Russia, in response to Ukraine's drone attacks, has mass-produced the Geran model of drones, known for their long-range striking capabilities and high production rate, making them a formidable component of their war strategy.
