The Potential of Low-Cost Drones as a Substitute for Expensive Missile Systems in the Ukrainian Armed Forces
The Ukrainian military is exploring new strategic avenues in modern warfare, particularly the deployment of inexpensive attack drones capable of operating within a 50-100 kilometer range.
This insight was shared by Ukrainian radio-electronic systems and communication expert Serhiy Beskrestnov.
In his Telegram channel, ‘Communication from Serhiy Flash,’ he emphasized that such drones could serve as niche alternatives to costly missile systems like HIMARS, which are currently heavily utilized in attacks.
According to Beskrestnov, Russian forces are expanding their damage zone using small UAVs, and Ukraine must respond similarly.
The critical advantage lies in the fact that all strategic front-line targets are within this operational distance, often pulled away from the immediate combat zone.Beskrestnov pointed out that due to limited access to space-based intelligence, Ukrainian forces have been unable to fully harness the potential of systems like HIMARS.
He also highlighted the technical challenges involved, including the need for different radio communication and navigation systems, as well as the necessity for larger, more robust batteries on these drones, which increases their weight and complexity.Furthermore, Russia employs tactics that allow them to hit deep into Ukrainian territory using FPV drones, which are often small and agile.
While Ukraine can launch short-range strikes, Beskrestnov suggests such methods are not cost-efficient in the long run.
He notes that some Ukrainian military leaders have already expressed a desire to shift focus away from aerial strikes deep into Russian territory towards more targeted attacks on medium and near-front areas, reflecting evolving strategic priorities.