As digital marketers, we have to stay current on the newest technologies – how they emerge, evolve, and change the way people behave and communicate. Yet, it’s crucial to remember technology is neutral; its impact depends entirely on how it’s applied.
Nowhere is this clearer than in Ukraine, where fibre-optic drones have significantly influenced modern warfare.
What Exactly Are Fibre-Optic Drones?
Fibre-optic drones are remotely operated vehicles guided through fibre-optic cables rather than conventional radio signals. Much like how fibre optics deliver fast and reliable internet by transmitting high volumes of data seamlessly into your home, these “fly-by-wire” drones maintain a secure, uninterrupted connection between the drone and its operator. This enables precise, real-time navigation and targeting, allowing operators to steer drones accurately into enemy targets such as tanks, artillery positions, or supply convoys – even in difficult terrain, dense forests, or complex urban environments. The real-time, high-quality video feed from these drones makes for horrifying Youtube posts.
Their Strength is Also Their Weakness
Fibre-optic drones are resistant to electronic countermeasures: fibre optics aren’t vulnerable to jamming or electronic disruption. And they are stealthy: since there’s no broadcasting radio signals, they are hard to detect. This also means greater operator safety by minimizing exposure to enemy surveillance.
But while fibre optics offers real advantages it comes with limitations. Because they are tethered, their range is limited to the length of the fibre-optic cable they carry. And the fibre cable itself can be severed or entangled in obstacles such as trees or structures. Damage to the cable instantly severs communication, sending the drone AWOL. Carrying large spools of fibre-optic cables adds weight, making these drones less agile and more susceptible to being targeted by enemy fire. They typically cannot execute sharp maneuvers as effectively as their wireless counterparts.
Finally, there is a lot of demand for fibre optic cable around the world. Procuring high-quality fibre optic spools and specialized equipment at scale has proven challenging. When it comes to equipping an army, you can’t rely on Aliexpress.
Real-Life Impact on Ukrainian Battlefields
In Ukraine, fibre-optic drones initially gave Russian forces a notable advantage this year by severely disrupting Ukrainian supply routes at a time when they needed it least. But Ukrainian forces quickly adapted, developing similar capabilities to regain parity. The technology has become widespread, influencing strategies and driving rapid battlefield adaptations on both sides.
One bizarre side effect of these drones is that Ukrainian fields are now covered in gossamer threads.
Why Do We Care?
As digital marketers, our role isn’t just about leveraging technology to engage audiences; it’s also about fostering awareness of technology’s broader consequences. That’s why we are so pre-occupied with AI. It’s clear that technology will continue to profoundly reshape our world. Staying informed about its uses and limitations empowers us to advocate for thoughtful innovation, prioritizing technologies that benefit society and enhance human lives.