A video released last week by the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense shows numerous thin wires resembling a spiderweb draped over trees in the Serebryansky forest, shimmering in the sunlight.
"The Serebryansky forest is now completely covered with fiber-optic cables from drones. Imagine how many drones are operating here," the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense commented alongside the video.
The Serebryansky forest, a large nature reserve in the Lugansk region, is located southeast of Kharkov city and north of Bakhmut in the Donetsk region.
Fiber-optic drones are equipped with a spool of very thin fiber-optic cable, allowing operators to control them through a wired connection instead of traditional radio signals. The drone gradually releases the cable as it flies, potentially reaching lengths of several kilometers.
"The video clearly shows the frequent use of fiber-optic drones in the area," said Business Insider editor Chris Panella, adding that this is further evidence of their increasing prevalence on the battlefield.
Russian forces began using fiber-optic drones last year to counter Ukrainian electronic warfare tactics, as the wired control system is immune to jamming devices. The Ukrainian military subsequently adopted the same tactic.
Fiber-optic drones are especially useful for short-range missions, particularly in open terrain where the cable is unobstructed by trees. However, both Russian and Ukrainian forces utilize them in forests due to their effectiveness.
In February, a Ukrainian drone unit reported that fiber-optic drones were not yet widely used, but their presence on the battlefield has increased significantly in recent months.
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A Russian fiber-optic drone in a photo posted 11/2024. Photo: Rossiyskaya Gazeta |
To counter the persistent threat of fiber-optic drones, Ukrainian forces have employed countermeasures like using shotguns to shoot them down at close range. This is considered the most effective defense currently.
In addition to developing countermeasures, Ukraine is also developing its own fiber-optic drones. The country's drone industry has boomed since the conflict with Russia began over three years ago, with many developers working closely with the Ukrainian military to adapt and create new products.
Pham Giang (According to Business Insider)
