Ukraine finds itself in a precarious position as it continues its war against Russia. Despite its best efforts, Ukraine has struggled to make significant gains due to the superior supply, tactics, and terrain advantage of Russia. The much-anticipated Ukrainian counteroffensive has fallen short, with Russian defenses proving to be formidable obstacles.
The flat and open agricultural land of southern Ukraine provides little cover for attacking forces, allowing Russia to prepare and build a deep defense system. Trenches, anti-tank obstacles, and reinforced bunkers have effectively contained Ukrainian forces and thwarted their attempts to break through. This attritional warfare has played into Russia’s strategy of making Ukraine pay for every inch it tries to take.
While Russia’s soldiers may not be of the highest quality, they have managed to slow down Ukrainian advances by taking cover in fortified dugouts and utilizing surveillance drones to prevent surprise attacks. Both sides have recognized the importance of drones in this conflict. Initially, Ukraine had the advantage, using small drones to drop grenades on Russian positions and spot for artillery fire. However, Russia quickly adapted and now uses drones to catch Ukrainian units off guard and exhaust their air defenses.
Recognizing the value of drones in modern warfare, Ukraine plans to increase its drone production to offset its weaker air force. They aim to produce drones capable of striking targets up to 1,000km away, potentially bringing major Russian cities into range. This would further complicate Russia’s logistical challenges in supplying its forces on the front lines.
Ukraine’s reliance on drones is evident in its domestic production numbers. In 2023 alone, Ukraine produced 300,000 drones, with a target of over a million drones this year. However, Ukraine’s military aid has dwindled as other global conflicts and domestic concerns take precedence. The United States, in particular, has reduced its support for Ukraine, leaving European NATO members to fill the gap.
To keep up with Russia’s artillery production, Ukraine needs an additional 240,000 shells per month. Artillery plays a crucial role in this conflict, with Russia now firing five shells for every Ukrainian one. Ukrainian defenders are resorting to firing only a few rounds a day in some areas just to stave off defeat.
This conflict has served as a lesson for military forces worldwide. It has highlighted the need for increased artillery production, missile stockpiles, and a layered air-defense system. Cheap and quickly manufactured missiles have become essential, as has the resurgence of tanks as formidable weapons on the battlefield.
Drones have emerged as force multipliers, significantly increasing the accuracy and effectiveness of artillery units. As one Ukrainian soldier noted, when paired with drones, the accuracy of artillery units increased by an astounding 250 percent.
The war in Ukraine continues to be a challenging and brutal conflict. Ukraine’s efforts to increase drone production demonstrate its determination to defend its lands and push back against Russia. However, without adequate support and resources, Ukraine faces an uphill battle against a well-prepared and resolute opponent.
