Politico
Kyiv’s devastating attacks on Russia underscore how easily cheap drones can cripple an air force, including America’s.
Ukraine’s stunning drone strikes on Russian airfields are intensifying calls from military leaders and lawmakers in both parties to address gaping vulnerabilities in U.S. air bases.
Kyiv this week launched more than 100 drones inside Russia using artificial intelligence, a daring move that eviscerated five military bases and damaged more than 40 aircraft. Footage of Russian bombers and fighters erupting in flames while parked on open tarmacs rippled across the internet — and Washington.
While it was a significant blow struck by a U.S. ally, the attacks also laid bare how easily and cheaply uncrewed systems can cripple sophisticated air forces. Officials’ concerns are particularly acute in the Pacific, where the U.S. is seeking to beef up its presence. Ukraine’s success underscored how swiftly an adversary can destroy airpower with drones.
