UNMANNED AIRCRAFT SYSTEMS: LESSONS FOR UKRAINE AND NATO - Throughout Russia’s invasion, Ukrainian forces have proven highly adaptive and innovative in their use of emerging technologies and concepts on the battlefield. Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) especially have been essential in Ukraine’s battlefield adaptation from delivering strikes to disorganize Russian lines of attack early in the war to enabling sensor platforms in Ukraine’s digitalized approach to combat. Looking ahead, as Ukraine seeks to retake large swaths of territory and hold Russian positions at risk, Ukraine’s requirements for UAS will also likely change.

The panel discussion will address the role of UAS in Ukraine’s current operations and future capability requirements to conduct and sustain Ukraine’s defense against Russia, including through critical support from NATO allies and Ukraine’s global partners. The panel will also seek to address larger questions for the future of UAS requirements for NATO allies and their role in NATO’s new defense and deterrence posture, especially as the Alliance approaches its annual Summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, this July.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 04/19/23