A major technological shift is underway in Libya’s military. The Libyan National Army (LNA), led by Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, has begun training in the operation of FPV (First-Person View) drones under the guidance of unnamed foreign instructors. According to Clash Report, these are most likely specialists from Russia.

FPV drones, which use cameras to transmit live video to an operator, are known for their high maneuverability and precision. They have already proven their effectiveness in conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine, where they have been used for both reconnaissance and as attack drones. The inclusion of these technologies in the LNA arsenal could significantly change the military dynamics in a country where various armed groups have been fighting for the past few years.

The use of FPV drones provides Haftar’s army with new capabilities in combat. Operators, being at a considerable distance from the target, can accurately direct drones to enemy targets, minimizing the risks to their own personnel. In addition, such drones are able to penetrate hard-to-reach places, including buildings and fortified positions, which makes them indispensable in urban warfare.

Interest in FPV drones in Libya may be due to their successful use in other regions. For example, the Russian military actively uses such drones to destroy enemy personnel in shelters located in forest plantations. The high speed and maneuverability of FPV drones allow for the effective destruction of moving targets and manpower in dugouts and special shelters. Moreover, in the 12-day military confrontation in Syria, these drones played a key role, allowing militants to overthrow the regime of Bashar al-Assad.