Increased use of FPV drones in eastern Ukraine has drastically hampered medical evacuations, significantly increasing mortality rates among wounded soldiers. The drones' range extends up to 20 kilometers from the front lines, creating dangerous kill zones that prevent timely aid. Medics report a shift from gunshot wounds to injuries caused by drone strikes, forcing them to relocate frequently and adapt their strategies. Self-aid and self-evacuation are now crucial, but even so, soldiers often face days or weeks of exposure before reaching safety, highlighting the devastating impact of this new warfare dynamic.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.