How to Seize an Enemy Position Using Only Unmanned Systems: A Step-by-Step Guide
In April, a historic milestone in modern warfare was achieved when Ukrainian forces captured an enemy position using exclusively unmanned systems—no human soldiers set foot on the contested ground. Drones and ground robots identified targets, suppressed defensive fire, and secured the area. This breakthrough, announced by President Volodymyr Zelensky, has shocked military strategists and thrust the company behind these systems into a billion-dollar valuation. Want to understand how such an operation unfolds? This step-by-step guide breaks down the process, from planning to execution, based on the real-world tactics used in that mission.
What You Need
- Reconnaissance Drones – High-altitude UAVs with optical and thermal cameras for surveillance.
- Attack Drones – Loitering munitions or FPV drones capable of precision strikes.
- Ground Unmanned Systems – Armed wheeled or tracked robots for direct assault and suppression.
- Communication Network – Encrypted, low-latency links to control all units remotely.
- Command Center – A mobile hub with multiple operator stations, real-time data fusion, and AI-assisted targeting.
- Software – Mission planning, terrain analysis, target recognition, and autonomous navigation systems.
- Trained Operators – Skilled pilots and technicians for each platform, plus a mission commander.
- Power & Logistics – Batteries, charging stations, spare parts, and secure supply routes.
- Electronic Warfare Countermeasures – To protect against enemy jamming and spoofing.
Table of Contents
- Reconnaissance and Intelligence Gathering
- Target Identification and Mission Planning
- Suppression of Defensive Fire
- Assault and Capture
- Consolidation and Control
Step 1: Reconnaissance and Intelligence Gathering
Begin by deploying reconnaissance drones to map the target area. These UAVs should circle at altitude, using electro-optical and infrared sensors to identify enemy positions, fortifications, troop movements, and potential obstacles. Key data points: coordinates of bunkers, machine gun nests, minefields, and lines of communication. Use AI-powered analysis to detect camouflage or hidden equipment. Ensure the drones maintain silent operation to avoid alerting the enemy. This phase may last hours or days, building a comprehensive picture.
Step 2: Target Identification and Mission Planning
Back at the command center, fuse the reconnaissance data with intelligence from other sources (satellites, SIGINT). Prioritize key targets—command posts, anti-tank weapons, and radar systems. Using mission planning software, assign roles: which drones will suppress, which robots will assault, and the sequence of engagements. Plan for contingencies: enemy electronic warfare, unexpected reinforcements, or weather changes. Set no-fly zones and safe corridors for ground robots. Simulate the operation to verify timing and coverage.
Step 3: Suppression of Defensive Fire
Launch attack drones and armed ground robots to neutralize the enemy’s ability to fight back. Start with stand-off strikes—loitering munitions taking out heavy weapons. Then, move ground robots into positions where they can deliver direct fire on remaining defenses. Use swarming tactics: multiple drones overwhelm air defenses while robots advance using smoke or cover. Continuous communication ensures coordinated fire. The goal is to create a window where no enemy weapon can bear on the advancing ground unit.
Step 4: Assault and Capture
With defensive fire suppressed, the unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) roll into the enemy position. Their tasks: clear bunkers, secure rooms, and neutralize any last resistance. Support drones drop grenades or provide overwatch from above. A captured position is marked by robots hoisting a sensor package or a flag. Throughout, the command center monitors every feed, making split-second decisions. No human soldier enters the zone—the entire occupation is done by machines.
Step 5: Consolidation and Control
After the position is seized, hold it with robots while preparing for counterattacks. Deploy sentry drones and perimeter-watching robots. Use ground units to clear booby traps and erect barriers. Establish a secure communication relay to maintain control. If needed, call in transport drones to resupply ammunition and batteries. The objective is to hold the ground until conventional forces can arrive or until the robotic garrison alone is sufficient for the tactical aim.
Tips for Success
- Redundancy is key: Always have backup units and alternative communication paths. A single jammed uplink can doom the mission.
- Test in realistic terrain: Practice on similar ground to understand robot mobility limitations and drone signal interference.
- Cybersecurity: Encrypt all links, use frequency hopping, and have a plan for electronic warfare scenarios.
- Integrate human-in-the-loop: While no boots are on ground, human operators make critical decisions—train them thoroughly.
- Learn from each mission: After action reviews should focus on what worked and what didn’t, especially with uncrewed systems.
- Keep it ethical: Ensure compliance with laws of armed conflict. Target discrimination is crucial even with robots.
This guide is based on real-world tactics demonstrated by Ukrainian forces. As unmanned technology evolves, such operations will become more common, reshaping the future of warfare.