Innovations
Tactical and technological innovations in drone warfare — what showed up first, where, and what it changes. Each entry is sourced, dated, and linked to the drones involved.
Su-57 seen with external short-range AAMs and possible new targeting pod
Photos show a Russian Su-57 carrying externally mounted short-range R-73/R-74 missiles—unusual given its internal bays—and what appears to be a previously unseen targeting/EO pod under the left engine nacelle. The configuration is assessed …
Drones: Elbit Hermes 450
US Army tests heavy-lift drone delivery of Bangalore torpedo for breaching
Oregon Army National Guard combat engineers tested using a heavy-lift commercial drone (Lorica Mule 28) to place and detonate a live Bangalore torpedo to clear wire obstacles, reducing exposure of soldiers during deliberate breaches. The tr…
101st tests drone-led obstacle breaching with grappling hooks and wire charges
The 101st Airborne tested a largely robotic trench-line breach concept using in-house built one-way drones (ABE 1.01) with a drone-dropped grappling hook attachment and a 3D-printed munition to cut/blast concertina wire, plus MRR “mothershi…
Russian drone campaign to isolate Ukrainian logistics on key axes
The post claims Russian forces are increasingly deciding battles by systematically using drones to interdict Ukrainian transport and isolate supply on the Kostiantynivka and Sloviansk directions. It notes Ukrainian infantry being forced to …
Russian motorcycle assault with mine-clearing devices and mobile EW near Mala Tokmachka
The post describes a Russian assault using over 30 motorcycles on multiple routes, with some bikes fitted with improvised mine-clearing attachments and others carrying mobile electronic-warfare gear. Using light motorbikes for dispersed ass…
Azov conducts 'middle-strike' drone campaign to disrupt logistics near Mariupol
The post describes a sustained Ukrainian 'middle-strike' campaign by the 1st NGU Corps 'Azov' using UAVs to systematically hit roads, substations, repair facilities and port infrastructure around occupied Mariupol to choke Russian logistics…
Ukrainian drones guide and supply surrendering Russian troops via 'Khochu zhyty'
The post describes a coordinated surrender-exfiltration operation where Ukrainian UAV operators escorted two soldiers along a safe route and provided water, food, and communications support. This reflects an evolving tactic of using drones …
Ukraine uses light aircraft and 'small air defense' vs drones
The post claims Ukraine has adapted to drone threats by using light propeller aircraft for drone interception and by fielding 'small air defense' consisting of AA guns and interceptor drones. This reflects an evolving counter-UAV air-defens…
UK conducts first VBSS interdiction of Russian 'shadow fleet' tanker
The UK carried out its first boarding/interdiction (VBSS) of a Russian 'shadow fleet' oil tanker in international waters, using an integrated package of Royal Marines/NCA teams supported by multiple helicopters, a P-8A maritime patrol aircr…
Ukraine to build anti-drone corridors in Shatsk community (Volyn)
The post reports plans to construct designated “anti-drone corridors” in Volyn, implying engineered protected routes/areas intended to reduce UAV threat. If implemented, this represents a defensive adaptation of terrain/infrastructure to mi…