In the UK, Ukrainian soldiers are being trained to operate strike drones that drop explosives. However, instead of real ammunition, water balloons are used during the exercises.
In the UK, Ukrainian soldiers are being trained to operate strike drones that drop explosives. However, instead of real ammunition, water balloons are used during the exercises.
According to Business Insider, citing the commander of the British training program Operation Interflex, water balloons have become part of the Ukrainian military’s training using drones in offensive operations. Instead of traditional reconnaissance, drones are increasingly being used to target the enemy.
Colonel Boardman (whose name is not being released for security reasons) explained that water balloons simulate live grenades or other explosive devices. This technique allows soldiers to prepare for real attacks without risking their lives. At the same time, it creates a sense of threat that is as close to combat conditions as possible.
Operation Interflex is a British program involving 13 partner countries, including Australia, Canada, Denmark and Lithuania. Since its launch, more than 56,000 Ukrainians have been trained, both new recruits and experienced soldiers. According to the colonel, many immediately go to the front after training, so the program is as intensive as possible and covers more than basic training for British soldiers.
In addition to drones, the training also includes simulated injuries, using amputees with makeup that simulates combat injuries. This allows for realistic first aid and evacuation of the wounded.
Drones have become a defining tool in modern warfare, especially on the Ukrainian-Russian front, where, according to UAV operators, up to 80% of enemy losses are due to drone strikes. Western countries providing military assistance to Ukraine not only train, but also adopt the experience of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The Pentagon is already launching a drone school with the participation of Ukrainian instructors, and Denmark plans to send its specialists to train in Ukraine itself.
We will remind you that we also published a material about how the commander of the SBS said that Europe is not ready for modern warfare — Ukrainian drone operators can turn a NATO base into Pearl Harbor in 15 minutes.
