Tech in Warfare: Ukraine & NATO Collaborate on Drones, Defense
A high-level panel, featuring Lyuba Shipovich of Dignitas Fund and former ECFR senior policy fellow Gustav Gressel, delved into the transformative role of technology in modern warfare. The discussion centered around the evolving use of drones and electronic warfare, their impact on military tactics, and the financing challenges faced by Europe and Ukraine.
The panel highlighted Ukraine's military evolution, from employing hobby quadcopters to integrating drone and robot units across almost every brigade since the 2022 Russian invasion. They explored the potential for Ukraine to share its expertise with NATO countries, training them in drone and electronic warfare tactics.
A key topic was the development of a multilayered, cost-efficient drone defense solution. This could involve radar detection, electronic jamming, and kinetic interception using drones or counter-UAV systems. Training drone defense teams could take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the intensity of the program.
The panel also addressed the financing gaps faced by Europe and Ukraine. They suggested increasing defense budgets, leveraging international aid, and investing in domestic technology development to reduce dependency on Chinese components. This could help close the financing gaps and bolster defense capabilities.
The panel agreed that embracing technology, such as drones and electronic warfare, is crucial for redefining military tactics. They emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between Ukraine and NATO countries in training and defense development. By investing in domestic technology and reducing dependency on foreign components, Europe and Ukraine can strengthen their defense posture and bridge existing financing gaps.
