How FPV and F-35 Affect the War Against “Tomahawks” and “Shaheds” – Opinion

The Evolution of Cruise Missiles and Drones in Modern Conflicts

Russian kamikaze drones “Shahed” have become a cost-effective alternative to expensive cruise missiles like the “Tomahawk.” The wars in Ukraine and Israel have demonstrated the effectiveness of both drones and aviation. The question of the future of cruise missiles remains open.

Technologies on the Battlefield

Cruise missiles, including American “Tomahawks” and Russian “Shaheds,” remain an important part of military strategies. Military analyst Michael Bonert in Defense News argues that their role will not diminish despite new approaches revealed in recent conflicts.

Russian-Ukrainian Dynamics

Since the beginning of hostilities in Ukraine, tanks and artillery have been used, but soon FPV drones joined them. Russia actively uses “Shaheds,” while Ukraine responds with FP-1 drones. Bonert emphasizes that such technologies pose a threat to major countries.

Even the most advanced defense systems cannot always counter this threat. Geography and physics play in favor of drones, making them particularly dangerous.

Israeli-Iranian Perspective

In the Israeli-Iranian conflict, stealth aircraft F-35 and B-2 have shown their effectiveness. Israel has also developed “Harpy” drones as a response to “Shaheds.” Two approaches to warfare — drones and stealth fighters — have their advantages and disadvantages.

Cruise missiles like “Tomahawks” continue to be an important element despite the development of drones. They fly low and fast, carrying a significant payload.

The Future of Cruise Missiles

Bonert notes that “Shaheds” are slow cruise missiles using propellers instead of turbofan engines. They strike fixed targets and have autonomous flight. This makes them economically viable analogs of more expensive missiles.

Regardless of the development of military technologies, cruise missiles and strike drones will remain an important part of the arsenal. Their ability to bypass obstacles and reach targets makes them indispensable in modern conflicts.

The wars in Ukraine and Israel have shown that technologies continue to evolve, but cruise missiles retain their relevance. This is a weapon that will always be at the forefront, regardless of changes in strategy and tactics.