Increased pace in assembling unmanned aerial vehicles by Russian manufacturers
Exclusive Interview: Colonel Reisner Discusses Russia's Drone Production Acceleration and Its Impact on the Battlefield
Russia's relentless air strikes on Ukraine have been intensifying, causing concern among Western Ukraine supporters. Colonel Markus Reisner, a military analyst, shares insights on the reasoning behind this shift and its implications on the frontline.
ntv.de: What does it signify that the Russians are significantly increasing their pace in drone attacks?
Markus Reisner: The mass of air attacks inflicts heavy damage on Ukraine, with a relatively large number of drones being intercepted. However, the interception rate for cruise missiles and Iskander rockets remains low, resulting in significant damage. Meanwhile, Ukraine attempts to counterattack targets on Russian territory, sometimes utilizing up to 150 drones at once. Over 1,000 drones entered Russian territory last week, according to Russian claims. The escalating air attacks on the Russian side are undeniably increasing.
Initially, Russia produced about 300 Geran-2 drones per month. However, they now manufacture these drones in just three days. The increased production has prompted concerns among Ukrainian forces. The Geran-2, a large drone measuring over three meters long and two meters wide, is often referred to as a "flying moped" due to its distinctive engine noise.
The drones' designs have also undergone modifications, with some models now powered by jet engines, increasing speed while reducing range. Modifications target decoys to lure Ukrainian air defense systems out. Attack drones, on the other hand, have increased their explosive payload, doubling the explosive power, from 50 kilometers to 100 kilograms.
Russia's drone production capacity is poised for further increases, with potential production rates reaching up to 500 pieces per day. This level of production would necessitate constant, massive strategic air attacks for Ukraine in the future, with continuous attacks along the entire front line.
Criticism against the Ukrainian General Staff is mounting as soldiers express their concerns regarding the static positions they're asked to maintain. Videos from the front line display small groups of soldiers clinging to small outposts under constant bombardment. The recurring theme echoes the frustration of being overburdened with senseless orders and the absence of relief or reinforcements.
Moreover, the issue of mobilization is causing concern. Year-olds have yet to be mobilized despite the ongoing war efforts. The thinning troops, many of whom have been in combat for three years, risk eventual collapse without relief or reinforcements.
Drone defense remains a considerable challenge for Ukraine. The Gepard anti-aircraft tank can be effective in shooting down Geran-2 drones, but its range is limited. The next best option is medium and high-range air defense, although the required ammunition is expensive and in short supply. The US has been working to deliver Patriot anti-aircraft missiles to enable Ukraine to replenish its air defense capabilities.
Ukraine faces a saturation effect, meaning that if the opponent produces too many incoming weapon systems, the defense will eventually reach its threshold. This predicament forces Ukraine to continuously decide between defending its military-industrial infrastructure in the country's depth or defending its positions at the front from bomb attacks.
Counter-drone combat systems and tactics are being developed on both sides, with Ukraine reportedly working on solutions in Kursk. Helicopters and old propeller planes are deployed to detect and follow drones, allowing soldiers to shoot them down with regular machine guns. Ukraine faces the challenge of securing the mass of these systems to counter the complete saturation of the front with Russian attacks.
The Russian drone warfare advantage over Ukraine is one of asymmetry in tactics, with the technological edge that Ukraine desperately needs still lacking. The strategic imports, localized production, workforce mobilization, and clear military prioritization enabling rapid drone production highlight Russia's tactical advantage in the ongoing conflict.
- The increased drone production in EC countries, such as Russia, poses significant challenges for the employment policy in the defense industry, as the demand for workers grows rapidly.
- The renewable-energy industry is investing heavily in the development of energy-efficient drones, seeking to capitalize on the growing market for such technology and create new employment opportunities.
- In contrast, the finance industry is less focused on drone technology, but it remains crucial for energy-intensive businesses involved in drone production, as securing wealth-management solutions and personal finance become increasingly important.
- The business of real-estate in EC countries has observed a trend where drones are increasingly used for surveying properties, creating new employment opportunities for pilots and data analysts in the field of data-and-cloud-computing and technology.
- In the world of sports, sports-analysis companies are exploring the use of drones for improving their services by providing accurate, real-time data, contributing to the growth of employment in the sports industry.
- As the employment policies in EC countries continue to evolve, it is essential to consider the increasing role of drones in various industries, from defense to renewable energy, and develop strategies to equip the workforce with the necessary skills for these emerging jobs.
- The realization of the potential of drones in EC countries necessitates collaboration between governments, industries, and educational institutions to create a sustainable employment environment that supports technological advancements and fosters economic growth.
