In modern warfare, technical capabilities play a decisive role. Ukraine continues to actively develop its electronic warfare (EW) systems to counter Russian drones, including Iranian-made Shahed drones. According to the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), Ukrainian forces have adapted lower-tier systems to combat enemy drones, which are frequently used to strike critical infrastructure and military targets.
Thanks to EW, the Ukrainian army can disable enemy drones, forcing them to change course or crash after running out of fuel. This significantly eases the pressure on Ukraine’s air defense systems, which are working under limited resources. A prime example is the successful neutralization of Iranian Shahed drones, which Russia actively uses in attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure.
Using HIMARS Systems Against Russian Air Defense
Modern strike systems like HIMARS also play a key role in the war. A recent video shows how the Ukrainian Armed Forces destroyed a Russian radar station, part of the S-400 air defense system. This incident sparked outrage among Russian military personnel, who admitted in their propaganda channels that the so-called “unmatched” system couldn’t even protect itself.
The destruction of such critical elements of Russian air defense highlights the weakness of Russian technologies in comparison to modern Western systems used by Ukrainian forces. It is also an important morale booster for Ukrainian defenders, who face overwhelming enemy forces on a daily basis.
“Dragon Drones” Against Occupiers
Another significant innovation in Ukraine’s military arsenal is the so-called “dragon drones.” According to CNN, these strike drones use thermite—a mixture of aluminum powder and iron oxide—that burns at temperatures of up to 2,200 degrees Celsius. Ukrainian forces employ these drones to drop molten metal on Russian positions, causing severe damage to equipment and infrastructure.
Thermite can penetrate nearly any material, including tank armor and metal fortifications. Although its use is not prohibited under international law, deploying it against civilian targets is banned due to its hazardous effects on people. Ukraine has already used thermite to disable Russian tanks, while also accusing Russia of using incendiary munitions against civilian structures.
The Psychological Impact of Thermite
Defense industry analyst Nicholas Drummond notes that the use of thermite on drones is primarily a psychological weapon. For Russian troops, it creates an additional fear factor, knowing that Ukrainian drones can inflict severe damage from the air. This level of innovation in military technology underscores Ukraine’s adaptability in its fight against the enemy.
Conclusion
The war in Ukraine demonstrates that modern technology plays a decisive role in shifting the balance of power on the battlefield. EW systems and combat drones are becoming key tools in countering Russian aggression. Ukraine not only successfully adapts contemporary technologies but also develops innovative solutions that help defend its territory and inflict significant losses on the enemy.
Also Read: Depletion of Soviet Weaponry in Russia: New Challenges for the Kremlin