Over the last decade, drones have transformed into crucial assets with diverse applications, from civilian uses like aerial photography and product deliveries to military operations in conflicts like the drone war between Russia and Ukraine. Policymakers in Brussels and Beijing recognise the importance of the drone industry, with China leading in manufacturing and the EU envisioning drones as vital to future societies. The historical journey of drones dates back to 1907, with recent developments highlighting the evolving threat they pose in modern warfare. American leaders are actively exploring counter-drone strategies, stressing the need for innovative defensive systems against the growing sophistication of drone technology.
Over the last decade, civilian drones, officially known as UAVs, have become crucial assets with both civilian and military applications. Civilian uses include aerial photography, environmental monitoring, infrastructure inspection, product deliveries, and police operations. In military contexts, their capabilities have been prominently showcased in Russia’s war against Ukraine, where both sides utilize drones for intelligence, harassment operations, and informational warfare, marking this conflict as the first full-scale drone war in history.
Policymakers in Brussels and Beijing have recognized the significance of the drone industry. China’s “Made in China 2025” plan emphasizes rapid development of its drone sector, while the EU’s “Drone Strategy 2.0” envisions drones as integral to future societies. Currently, China stands as the leading global manufacturer and exporter of civilian consumer drones, which has geopolitical implications, including influence in international standards and technological advancements.
Historical uses of drones date back to 1907 with the development of the first quadcopter. The first combat application occurred in 1943 with the German FX 1400, a remote-controlled bomb. The CIA’s use of predator drones began in 2002. Recent conflicts, such as the ongoing war in Ukraine and a 2024 drone attack on an American outpost in Jordan by Iranian-backed forces, underscore the evolving threat drones pose to modern warfare.
American military and industry leaders are focusing on counter-drone strategies. Discussions at events like the 2024 AFA Warfare Symposium highlighted urgency in developing defensive systems. Potential solutions include passive detection technology, interceptor drones like the Air Force’s Paladin, and directed energy weapons. Efforts by companies like Elbit Systems and D-Fend Solutions are advancing technologies to neutralize enemy drones effectively.
As development continues, diversified and adaptable approaches are essential to counter sophisticated threats posed by drones.
