Kill zone expands in Ukraine as drones reshape combat

Medium-range drones are changing the dynamics of combat in Ukraine.

Kill zone expands deeply in Ukraine's conflict

On the Zaporizhia front in Ukraine, Commander Cartel and his unit from the 128th Mountain Assault Brigade adapt to expanding danger zones. Previously stationed close to the front line, they have retreated to safer ground due to increasing enemy artillery and drone attacks. Now stationed 8 kilometers back, they utilize drones to identify targets and coordinate strikes but must dig a bunker deeper into Ukrainian territory as the threats grow. "We are going underground," Cartel says, anticipating completion of their shelter by mid-August.

The conflict in Ukraine underscores a significant shift in combat dynamics, driven largely by technology. The introduction of medium-range drones has enabled enemy forces to launch attacks from further away, expanding the risk zone for Ukrainian troops. Commander Cartel's move to a deeper position reflects a tactical retreat in response to escalating threats, a common strategy in modern warfare. As both sides increase their reliance on drones, the battlefield will likely become more complex and contested, making safety increasingly precarious for frontline soldiers.

Highlights

As the war evolves, ground troops must constantly reassess their strategies to stay safe.