Russian invisibility cloaks fail against Ukrainian drones
Russian invisibility cloaks, intended to shield soldiers from detection by drones with thermal imaging cameras, have been found ineffective. The Telegraph reports that there may have been a technological error, leaving soldiers as easy targets for Ukrainians.
Both Moscow and Kyiv are striving to outsmart each other using modern camouflage technologies. One surprising element of this rivalry is the use of so-called invisibility cloaks — specialized outfits designed to confuse thermal imaging systems and reconnaissance drones.
A company collaborating with the Russian defence industry developed lightweight, multi-layered suits aimed at distorting a soldier’s thermal signature, making them hard for the enemy to detect. As reported in The Telegraph, an error may have occurred in the construction of this technology.
This, combined with a lack of proper training, renders Russian soldiers visible to Ukrainian drones equipped with thermal cameras. The sensors in their suits are inadequate at masking their heat, making them visible and thus easy targets for precise attacks.
In a recording shared by the Ukrainian 63rd Motorized Infantry Brigade, it is evident that the invisibility cloaks worn by the Russians are insufficient or are being used in a manner contrary to the manufacturer's recommendations.
Ideally, these suits should appear entirely different on cameras and should not be detectable by infrared sensors. The cloak material should limit heat emission, so soldiers do not "glow" on the thermal camera display.
How much does one invisibility cloak cost?
The cost of one such cloak varies depending on the technology and manufacturer, but it is estimated to range from several thousand to several tens of thousands of dollars. The exact price is often undisclosed due to military secrets.
Each side of the conflict in Ukraine conducts independent research and develops technologies to achieve greater "invisibility" for soldiers on the front line. Various materials are being used.
