How war in Ukraine reshaped military technology and strategy?

The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict has dramatically reshaped modern warfare, with technological advancements and shifting civil-military relations playing a central role. In an in-depth analysis, Foreign Affairs explores how drones, artificial intelligence, and civilian participation are transforming combat strategies. It delves into the technological, tactical, and strategic shifts that have arisen due to the war, emphasizing the critical role of advanced technologies like drones and artificial intelligence (AI), as well as the evolving civil-military relations in both Russia and Ukraine.

At the core of the article is the observation that the war has fundamentally altered the way modern militaries operate. The use of drones, once seen as supplementary, has become a mandatory component in both ground and aerial warfare. Ukraine, in particular, has demonstrated significant innovation in its use of drones, employing them for diverse functions, including surveillance, logistical support, and even direct attacks on Russian positions. By coupling drones in new ways, such as launching aerial drones from maritime platforms, Ukraine has proven that innovation can overcome the imbalance of resources in smaller nations. In this technological arms race, both sides are rapidly adapting and refining their capabilities, blurring the lines between human and robotic soldiers.

The article also highlights how the war has accelerated the integration of AI into military operations. Both Russia and Ukraine have leveraged AI to enhance target detection and strike capabilities, thus shortening the decision-making cycle and making combat more lethal. Despite early Ukrainian advances in AI integration, Russia has caught up, underscoring the ever-quickening pace of technological adaptation in modern warfare. The emphasis on AI reflects a broader shift in military strategy, where speed and adaptability are key to achieving success on the battlefield.

However, the article goes beyond technology, pointing out the evolving role of civilian participation in war. The widespread availability of satellite imagery and social media has granted civilians unprecedented access to real-time information from the frontlines. Citizens are no longer limited to passive support but are actively involved in raising funds, reporting threats, and contributing to the war effort in various ways. This shift has led to the democratization of warfare, where information—both useful and harmful—flows freely and can be utilized by any side.

A particularly noteworthy point made in the article is the staggering human cost of the conflict. Casualties on both sides have reached unprecedented levels, with Ukraine's losses nearing 45,000 dead and 400,000 wounded. These figures, alongside Russia's own mounting casualties, underscore the heavy toll of prolonged warfare. The article notes that both countries face existential questions about how long they can sustain these high casualty rates and whether the conflict can be resolved without a breakthrough.

In conclusion, Foreign Affairs presents a multifaceted analysis of the war in Ukraine, emphasizing the irreversible changes it has brought to modern warfare. As Ukraine and Russia continue to innovate and adapt their military strategies, the lessons learned in this conflict will reshape global defense policies for years to come. The war’s technological, human, and geopolitical repercussions extend far beyond the region, offering vital insights into the future of military engagement.

By Vugar Khalilov