Drones and danger: Fiber optic nets pose new frontline threat
The Military News UA profile on X shared a video from the frontlines in Ukraine showing unusual nets that soldiers walk on, which can become tangled around their feet. These nets have emerged due to the use of drones in the conflict. These constructions often incorporate fiber optic cables.
The war in Ukraine has left behind numerous unexploded ordnance, mines, and other threats on both Ukrainian and Russian Federation territories that will linger for years. Unusual nets are increasingly appearing on the frontlines, posing risks, including to helicopters, particularly if these nets are in trees.
Fiber optic cables on the frontline
Let's clarify that drones controlled through deployed fiber optics have gained popularity in recent months of the conflict. This is primarily because both sides are developing more effective tools to jam drones. Fiber optics offer a solution to this issue, as they are entirely resistant to electronic warfare systems.
However, it's important to note their limitation: restricted range. These constructions need to carry extra weight in the form of fiber optic cables, which means they can reach distances of 6-12 miles. Additionally, drones with fiber optics can facilitate opponents in locating the launch site, as the cable trails back to the operator's equipment.
Many fiber optic cables from drones lie on the ground, as seen in a recently published video from the front. However, they can also be found in trees, stretching over long distances. In such cases, the cables pose a direct threat, including to helicopters. When helicopters fly at low altitudes, they risk snagging their rotors on the fiber optics, which could potentially lead to a catastrophe.
