Drones will be key.
When used well, on budget and in the right terrain, in Ukraine against Russian occupiers, and in Moscow and in Russia, they are effective.
Previously mentioned suppliers not affiliated to China, Iran and Russia or their small amount of affiliates, can provide these specifically for East and South Ukraine:
these companies are well-positioned to supply drones to Ukraine for use in Donbas, Crimea, and Kherson. They have the experience, the expertise, and the products that Ukraine needs. Additionally, they are not Chinese, Iranian, or Russian companies, which is important to Ukraine because of the ongoing conflict.
Here are some of the specific drones that these companies offer that could be useful for Ukraine:
- AeroVironment RQ-11 Raven: This small, hand-launched drone is used for surveillance and reconnaissance. It is unarmed, but it can be equipped with a variety of sensors, including cameras and night vision devices.
- Elbit Hermes 900: This medium-altitude, long-endurance drone can carry a variety of weapons, including laser-guided bombs and missiles. It has a range of over 1,000 kilometers and can stay in the air for over 24 hours.
- Thales Watchkeeper WK450: This medium-altitude, long-endurance drone can carry a variety of weapons, including laser-guided bombs and missiles. It has a range of over 2,000 kilometers and can stay in the air for over 40 hours.
- Saab UAV GlobalEye: This high-altitude, long-endurance drone can carry a variety of sensors, including radar, electronic intelligence (ELINT), and communications intelligence (COMINT) systems. It has a range of over 11,000 kilometers and can stay in the air for over 40 hours.
- Airbus SkyGuardian: This high-altitude, long-endurance drone can carry a variety of weapons, including laser-guided bombs and missiles. It has a range of over 12,000 kilometers and can stay in the air for over 40 hours.