US Army brigade of 3,500 troops effectively neutralized by Ukrainian drone operators in Germany military exercise
A US Army brigade of about 3,500 soldiers was effectively wiped out in a NATO exercise in Germany this spring by Ukrainian drone operators, the WSJ reports. Dust clouds from US vehicles made them easy targets. Troops later adapted with dispersal and better electronic warfare.
A US Army armored brigade of about 3,500 soldiers, mostly from the 1st Cavalry Division's 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, was effectively neutralized during the Combined Resolve exercise in Germany this spring, according to a Wall Street Journal report. Ukrainian drone operators from the 412th Unmanned Systems Regiment, known as "Nemesis," reinforced the opposing force. Dust clouds kicked up by moving US heavy vehicles made them easy to spot for reconnaissance drones, which were followed by simulated airstrikes and explosive-laden FPV drones aimed at the targets. US forces improved as the exercise went on, learning to disperse, use camouflage and rely more on electronic warfare. Halfway through, the Ukrainian unit switched sides to help American troops use drones offensively instead. The result highlights a gap between the Pentagon's investment in counter-drone systems and how conventional armored formations actually perform against a force with real combat experience in drone warfare. Source: Wall Street Journal