FPV drones achieved target detonation in only 43% of sorties, dropping to 20–30% including aborted missions
Majority of missions were second-tap strikes on already hit targets; truly unique precision tasks were under 10%
Each FPV drone sortie costs about $500 versus under $100 for mortars or reusable drone munitions
High technical failure rate: 25% of drones had launch faults, batteries died mid-flight, and 10% of warheads failed to detonate
Operational difficulties: drones are hard to fly, lack night vision and navigation aids, and require extensive training
Radio link issues, frequency clashes, and electronic jamming downed about one-third of sorties
Technological advancements (better quality control, digital transmission, fiber-optic control) could improve reliability
Recommendation: NATO should focus on well-trained mortar support and high-end loitering munitions instead of FPV drones
Get notified when new stories are published for "General AI News"