Is Kiev the New Silicon Valley of Drone Tech!?

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September 6, 2024

Video Summary

I’ve been following the advancements in drone technology in Ukraine, and it’s fascinating to see the innovative ways Ukraine has been using drones to change the game in the conflict. There are three pieces of drone tech that have recently been rolled out, and I’m excited to dive into each one.

The first is a flamethrower drone, which uses a thermite payload to create a wall of fire that can clear dense foliage. This technology is particularly useful in the tree line battles, where Russian forces often hide behind cover. By dropping thermite, Ukraine can essentially clear the area of cover, making it more difficult for Russian soldiers to operate.

The second piece of tech is an air burst drone, which is essentially a DIY air burst using a laser rangefinder to measure distances and an electronic fuse. This technology creates a lethal cloud of debris that can shower enemy troops, making it a game-changer in urban warfare. The best part is that this technology is affordable and accessible, making it a viable option for Ukraine’s military.

The third piece of tech is a counter-drone drone, which uses a balloon-based system to detect and track enemy drones. This system, called Aero-Asm, can locate the source of the signal and then launch a counter-drone strike or artillery strike against the enemy. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the way Ukraine’s military responds to drone threats.

What’s fascinating about these technologies is that they’re all relatively inexpensive and accessible, which is a departure from the traditional approach of the US military. The US frequently takes a different approach, investing in expensive, high-tech gear, which can take years to develop and implement. This approach can leave the US military vulnerable to smaller, more nimble opponents like Ukraine, which has been able to innovate and adapt quickly.

I think the message from these technologies is clear: the US military needs to rethink its approach to warfare, embracing the power of innovation and iteration. As former head of the Joint Chiefs, General Mark Miley, and former CEO of Google, Eric Schmidt, recently argued, the US military is not equipped to fight and win the wars of the future. The key is to invest in affordable, accessible technologies that can help level the playing field.