Drone warfare in Ukraine: Fiber optics pose new aerial threats
The war in Ukraine left behind mines and unexploded ordnance, as well as another very dangerous trap resembling spider webs. This article explains how these were created and the threat these fiber optic networks pose.
Both Ukrainians and Russians have recently started to intensively use FPV drones controlled via deployed fiber optics. Their advantage is a complete resistance to electronic warfare systems, but their drawback is limited range and practicality. The drone, apart from a combat head and battery, also needs to carry a spool with fiber optic cable usually sufficient for 6-12 miles of flight, although there are models with greater range.
The widespread use of these drones creates networks of fiber optics in combat regions, like the one visible below. The photo is purportedly from the Kursk region near a Ukrainian trench, but similar scenes are becoming the norm along the entire combat line.
On the other hand, fiber optics allow for easy identification of the opponent's drone operators' locations after a battle, as you can literally "follow the thread to the end." This knowledge can provide information about the tactics of deploying drone operators or the structure of their hideouts.
Fiber optic networks in Ukraine — A particular problem for pilots
Whether a drone attack is successful or unsuccessful, the drone is destroyed, but miles of fiber optics remain, creating networks that, with mass usage, can have strength comparable to electrical wires.
Due to their low cost, it's unlikely many will bother to collect the fiber optics after the war, compared to scrap metal. They will pose a significant threat to helicopters, including those in the military, police, rescue, or civilian sectors, for decades.
According to the EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), collisions with wires cause deaths in about 30 percent of accidents and up to 60 percent during flights in difficult conditions based on instruments or at night. Although virtually all helicopters are equipped with wire-strike protection systems in the upper and lower sections of the fuselage designed to cut wires, these do not guarantee 100 percent effectiveness. It's enough for the wire to go over it and get entangled in the main rotor.
