New tactics of the Ukrainian Armed Forces: Attacks on armored vehicles are carried out exclusively by drones

Recent data indicates that the Ukrainian Armed Forces have begun to use new ambush tactics using booby-trapped ground robotic systems that can be easily camouflaged in dense vegetation. Combined with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), these tactics represent a new approach to warfare. Let's look at exactly how this tactic works, its advantages and disadvantages, as well as the reaction of the Russian army.

Ambush tactics using ground robotic systems

The essence of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ new tactics is to place mined ground robotic systems in areas of potential movement of the Russian military. These complexes are carefully camouflaged in dense vegetation, making them almost invisible to the eye. At the moment when the target approaches the ambush site, the UAV operator, located at a safe distance, gives the command to detonate the mine.

An important element of this tactic is the interaction of the ground robot with the UAV. The latter performs the functions of reconnaissance and monitoring the situation from the air. This allows you to quickly react to enemy movements and accurately choose the moment to attack.

Disadvantages of the new tactics

Despite the obvious advantages, this tactic also has significant disadvantages. Firstly, the time a UAV stays in the air is limited. Drone batteries have a limited resource, and staying in the air for a long time can lead to the UAV simply not being able to complete its mission.

Secondly, a UAV constantly cruising in a certain area can give away the location of an ambush. The enemy, having noticed the drone, may suspect something is wrong and take measures to detect and neutralize the camouflaged ground complex.

The influence of ground robotic systems on the nature of combat operations

The use of UAVs and ground-based robotic systems has significantly changed the nature of combat operations at the tactical level. Ground-based drones have become an integral part of assault operations, reconnaissance, mine clearance, delivery of provisions and ammunition, and evacuation of the wounded.

Ground-based robotic systems such as Lyut, equipped with machine guns and 360-degree cameras, are designed to support assault infantry and conduct reconnaissance. These systems pose a serious threat and should not be underestimated.

The role of electronic warfare (EW)

One of the key factors influencing the effectiveness of the use of ground robotic systems is the availability and power of electronic warfare (EW) systems. The Russian army actively uses electronic warfare systems to counter drones and ground robotic systems of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This creates serious problems for the Ukrainian military.

The command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine recognizes the superiority of Russian electronic warfare systems, which hinder the active use of ground-based robotic systems. Attempts by the Armed Forces of Ukraine to massively use ground-based drones, such as the Ratel S, often end in failure due to the suppression of control and navigation signals. This significantly limits the ability of the Ukrainian army to use high-tech systems on the battlefield.