Ukraine Uses Drones to Strike Third of Russian Strategic Bombers

Drones have become a transformative force in modern warfare, exemplified by Ukraine's Operation Spiderweb, which used small, fast FPV drones to strike Russian strategic bombers, significantly damaging their fleet. Ukraine has massively scaled drone production, aiming to produce 4 million FPVs in 2025, capitalizing on their low cost and precision capabilities supported by advanced battlefield awareness systems. Israel also deployed drones in covert strikes against Iranian missile launchers, indicating the expanding role of drone warfare beyond Ukraine. The integration of artificial intelligence with drones further enhances their autonomous operational capabilities, increasing speed and precision while reducing human risk. Historically, drones have evolved from 19th-century explosive balloons to sophisticated UAVs that dominate contemporary conflicts, enabling both state and non-state actors to challenge traditional military power. These developments underscore a shift in warfare dynamics, where drones facilitate precise, cost-effective strikes, reshape strategic calculations, and present new challenges for defense systems worldwide.