Russian Roulette Drones and AI on the Battlefields of Ukraine with Kate Bondar and Sam Bendett
Apr 3, 2025
Kate Bondar, a Fellow at the Wadwani AI Center, and Sam Bendett delve into the cutting-edge intersection of drones and AI in the Ukraine conflict. They discuss how these technologies are reshaping modern warfare and highlight the swift adaptation of Ukraine's military to incorporate innovative tech. The conversation covers the psychological impact of drone operations, the rapid evolution of soldier training through AI, and the contrasting strategies of the Russian and Ukrainian forces. A fascinating look at the future of warfare awaits!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Drones as Game Changers
- Drone warfare drastically changes modern combat, with 75% of Russian injuries and 80% of Ukrainian strikes attributed to them.
- This shift creates a remote, constantly evolving battlefield where software advancements, especially in AI, dramatically increase drone effectiveness.
Gingerbread Obsolescence
- A Russian military company includes a gingerbread cookie with its drone shipments; if the cookie is stale upon arrival, the drone is considered obsolete.
- This highlights the rapid pace of technological change in the war, where technology becomes outdated within weeks.
Blurring Lines
- Civil society's unprecedented involvement in drone development blurs the line between combatant and civilian.
- Volunteers establish near front lines, raising complex questions about their roles and the changing nature of warfare.