Ukraine's invisible aerial threat: The fibre optic snare
The war in Ukraine, apart from leaving mines and various unexploded ordnances, also introduces another very dangerous trap, akin to spider webs. We explain how these were created and the threat posed by these fibre optic networks.
Recently, Ukrainians and Russians have started intensively using FPV drones controlled via deployed fibre optics. Their advantage is that they are completely resistant to electronic warfare systems, but they have drawbacks such as limited range and practicality. Aside from a combat head and battery, the drone also needs to carry a spool with fibre optic cable, usually sufficient for 10 to 20 kilometres of flight, although some models offer greater range.
Their widespread use creates networks of fibre optics in combat regions, similar to the one shown below. The photo is reportedly from the Kursk region near a Ukrainian trench, but such scenes are becoming the norm along the entire combat line.
Conversely, the fibre optics allow for easy identification of the opponent's drone operators' locations after a battle, as one can literally "follow the thread to the end." Such knowledge can provide insights into the tactics of deploying drone operators or the configuration of their hideouts.
Fibre optic networks in Ukraine — a particular problem for pilots
Whether in a successful or unsuccessful attack, the drone is destroyed, but the kilometres of fibre optics remain, creating networks that, with mass use, can have strength comparable to electrical wires.
Due to their low cost, it's unlikely many will bother to retrieve the fibre optics after the war, unlike with scrap metal. As a result, they will pose a significant threat to military, police, rescue, or civilian helicopters for decades to come.
According to the EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), collisions with wires cause fatalities in about 30 percent of accidents and up to 60 percent during flights in challenging conditions based on instruments or at night. Although virtually all helicopters are equipped with wire-strike protection systems on the upper and lower sections of the fuselage, which are designed to cut wires, this does not guarantee 100 percent effectiveness. It suffices for a line to go over it and become entangled in the main rotor.
