The rapid development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in recent years has radically transformed the field of geopolitical conflict. No longer are long-range drone flights the exclusive prerogative of major superpowers – even resource-constrained countries such as Ukraine are managing to incorporate advanced UAVs into their strategic arsenals. The result? New paradigms in security doctrine, upheavals on the battlefield and an unprecedented pressure to reassess defence technology.
Long-Range UAVs are systems that have the ability to carry out missions:
- at distances of more than 500-1,000 km
- with autonomy of several hours to days
- often at low cost, thanks to the use of commercial components
Many of them operate without live remote control connection, relying on pre-programmed waypoints or combined use of AI and obstacle avoidance sensors or with fibre optics & AI.
Ukraine has become an example of using UAVs for:
- Identifying targets behind enemy lines
- Accuracy of hits on strategic infrastructure (such as refineries, air defence bases, industries)
- Psychological pressure through strikes in “safe” Russian regions
Indicative of this is the fact that Ukrainian-produced UAVs have reached the point of hitting targets in areas such as Tatarstan and Moscow, with a range of over 1,200 km. Many of them use fibre optics in ground segments and relay communication via satellites (Starlink), ensuring connectivity even in environments with strong Russian jam, sound unbelievable but it is far from true.
Technological Innovation and Improvisation
Ukrainian drones are not expensive systems like the American Reaper or Global Hawk. On the contrary:
- Use commercial engines (e.g. Rotax)
- They carry bodies made of 3D printed materials or composite lightweight plastics
- They use GPS navigation with Glonass/Beidou booster signals
- Incorporate AI modules for target recognition and flight autonomy
Military technology, with its low cost and accessibility, has become a tool to challenge the power of traditional armies.
The Impact on the Geopolitical Balance is enormous
- Reversal of the “Depth of Defence” axiom: no base is now considered far from the battlefield.
- Air dominance without manning: Costly manned missions are being replaced by drones.
- Asymmetric advantage for smaller countries: They can build up a “fleet” without expensive purchases.
- Psychological & political destabilization: The ability of a UAV to reach the enemy’s capital creates a feeling of insecurity; suddenly the Need for Defence Countermeasures is enormous.
This development creates a need for:
- Detection of small UAVs with high-sensitivity radar
- Dealing with swarm attacks (swarm attacks)
- Electronic warfare with smart jamming & spoofing
- Anti-drone drones and laser guns
The air defence shield model must incorporate AI, machine learning and real-time data fusion technologies from multiple sensors.
Greece, because of its geopolitical position and multiple challenges:
- Must invest in national UAV production
- Create UAV training centres & UAV training centres AI applications
- Develop partnerships with research institutions and startups in the field of defence technology
- AI technology & handling for deterrence & attack.
The Patras Drone Academy could play a key role in this transition by offering:
- Training in UAV operation in complex environments
- Seminars on strategic use of UAVs for security and civil protection
- Seminars on the use of thermal camera & night flight.
- Support for those who want to enter the defence technology sector
The age of drone warfare is not just around the corner – it’s already here. Long-range flights bring with them new realities of power, but also of responsibility. Whoever invests in knowledge, innovation and strategy will have the advantage not only on the battlefield, but also in the security of their citizens.
📍 Patras Drone Academy – Where knowledge and technology meet reality
- Psychological & political destabilization: The ability of a UAV to reach the enemy’s capital creates a feeling of insecurity; suddenly the Need for Defence Countermeasures is enormous.
