Drone technology is used for intelligence gathering, target identification, armed strikes, logistics and psychological warfare. In IB Global Politics, this is an HL-only issue within the Technology topic area, but it also connects to Security and the thematic study of Peace and Conflict.
Drones alter power by allowing actors to observe or attack opponents without placing pilots directly at risk. Their relative affordability also enables smaller states and non-state actors to challenge militarily stronger opponents.
| Use | Mechanism and example |
|---|---|
| Surveillance and reconnaissance | Drones transmit real-time images, allowing forces to locate troops and equipment. Since Russia's 2022 invasion, Ukrainian units have used commercial quadcopters to identify Russian positions and direct artillery fire. |
| Direct attack | Armed drones launch missiles, while one-way attack drones detonate on impact. Russia has used Iranian-designed Shahed drones against Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure, particularly from late 2022. |
| Tactical combat | First-person-view drones can strike individual vehicles or defensive positions. Both Russia and Ukraine expanded their battlefield use during 2023 and 2024. |
| Maritime operations | Uncrewed surface vessels can attack ships and ports. Ukrainian sea drones damaged Russian Black Sea Fleet vessels and contributed to Russia relocating some naval assets away from Sevastopol. |
| Psychological warfare | Persistent drone presence creates uncertainty because personnel may be observed or attacked at any moment. This can lower morale and restrict movement. |
The 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict demonstrates the strategic effect. Azerbaijan used Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones and Israeli-made loitering munitions against Armenian air defences and armoured vehicles, contributing to Azerbaijan's territorial gains.
A common misconception is that drones make conflict fully remote or bloodless. They still depend on operators, communications networks, satellite navigation and supply chains, illustrating interdependence. Civilian casualties and cross-border strikes can also create disputes about legitimacy, international humanitarian law and sovereignty.
For an HL Paper 3 response, connect Technology to Security and analyse both effectiveness and limitations. Use specific actors, dates and outcomes, then evaluate vulnerabilities such as electronic jamming, weak communications, misidentification and escalation.