The Lebanon-based Shiite militant group Hezbollah is rapidly developing its technological capabilities, borrowing tactics from the Ukrainian military in using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to wage modern warfare. Hezbollah has significantly increased production of attack drones, Reuters reports, posing new challenges for Israel, which has been stepping up countermeasures including airstrikes and developing advanced air defense systems. The shift in strategy underscores the growing importance of technology in regional conflicts and escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Hezbollah’s Unit 127, which specializes in the development and production of UAVs, plays a key role in transforming its military capabilities. According to The Times of Israel, since early 2025, the group has significantly increased the production of suicide drones using readily available components purchased online. This approach allows Hezbollah to minimize its dependence on external supplies, including Iran, which has traditionally been the main sponsor and supplier of weapons. Analysts interviewed by Al Jazeera note the similarity of this tactic to the methods used by Ukraine in the conflict with Russia, where the mass use of cheap drones has allowed it to carry out pinpoint strikes.

Israel, recognizing the growing threat, has stepped up efforts to neutralize Hezbollah’s production capabilities. According to the Jerusalem Post, on June 5, 2025, the Israeli Air Force carried out a series of strikes on the group’s facilities in the Dahiyeh area of ​​Beirut and Ain Qana in southern Lebanon. The strikes destroyed hundreds of drones and production lines, marking one of the largest strikes on Hezbollah’s infrastructure in recent years. IAF Commander Maj. Gen. Tomer Bar said Unit 127 posed a serious threat due to its ability to produce drones locally.