How Ukraine Is Using Drones to Deliver 155mm Artillery with Deadly Accuracy

The integration of large Ukrainian drones with 155mm artillery shells represents a significant evolution in modern warfare tactics, particularly in terms of cost-efficiency and precision. This innovative approach reflects a strategic shift toward maximizing the effectiveness of existing military assets while minimizing operational expenses. By leveraging unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to deliver heavy artillery payloads, Ukrainian forces have demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to the demands of asymmetric warfare, where agility, accuracy, and resourcefulness often outweigh brute force.

Traditionally, 155mm artillery shells are deployed via ground-based howitzers or self-propelled artillery systems, which require substantial logistical support, fuel, and manpower. These systems, while powerful, are often limited by terrain, visibility, and the need for forward deployment. In contrast, drones offer a nimble and versatile platform capable of bypassing many of these constraints. By mounting a 155mm shell onto a large drone, Ukrainian forces can deliver devastating firepower deep into enemy territory without exposing personnel or equipment to direct risk. This method not only reduces the cost associated with traditional artillery operations but also enhances the tactical reach of the military.

One of the most compelling advantages of this tactic is its precision. Drones equipped with GPS guidance and real-time surveillance capabilities can identify and track targets with exceptional accuracy. When paired with a high-explosive payload like a 155mm shell, the result is a highly effective strike that minimizes collateral damage and maximizes impact. This is particularly valuable in urban or contested environments, where traditional artillery might struggle to avoid civilian infrastructure or friendly units. The drone’s ability to loiter, observe, and strike at the optimal moment transforms it from a mere delivery system into a smart weapon platform.

Moreover, the explosive power of the artillery shell can be further enhanced through clever engineering. Ukrainian technicians have reportedly experimented with repurposing unused propellant materials from artillery shell casings to amplify the blast radius. These materials, which would otherwise be discarded or remain inert, are combined with the shell’s warhead to create a more potent explosive effect. This not only increases the lethality of each strike but also exemplifies a resourceful mindset—making the most of available components to achieve superior results. In a conflict where supply chains are strained and resources must be conserved, such ingenuity is invaluable.

The psychological impact of drone-delivered artillery should not be underestimated either. Enemy forces accustomed to conventional artillery patterns may find themselves disoriented by the sudden appearance of drones carrying heavy ordnance. The unpredictability of these attacks, coupled with their precision, can erode morale and disrupt command structures. Furthermore, the use of drones allows for rapid deployment and repositioning, enabling Ukrainian forces to maintain pressure across multiple fronts without the need for large-scale troop movements. This flexibility is a key asset in a dynamic battlefield environment.

From a strategic standpoint, this tactic also reflects a broader trend in military innovation: the fusion of legacy weaponry with cutting-edge technology. Rather than relying solely on new systems, Ukrainian forces are finding ways to breathe new life into existing arsenals. The 155mm shell, a staple of artillery warfare for decades, gains renewed relevance when paired with modern UAVs. This synergy not only extends the utility of traditional munitions but also accelerates the pace of battlefield adaptation. In essence, it’s a form of technological recycling—repurposing proven tools in novel ways to meet contemporary challenges.

The cost-efficiency of this approach cannot be overstated. Drones, especially those produced domestically or modified from commercial platforms, are significantly cheaper than maintaining a fleet of armored vehicles or advanced missile systems. When combined with surplus or repurposed artillery shells, the result is a low-cost, high-impact weapon system. This is particularly advantageous for Ukraine, whose defense budget must be carefully managed amid ongoing conflict. By investing in scalable, modular solutions like drone-artillery hybrids, the military can maintain operational effectiveness without overextending its resources.

In addition to battlefield applications, this tactic has implications for defense policy and procurement. It challenges traditional notions of military spending, which often prioritize high-cost platforms and complex systems. Instead, it suggests that innovation and adaptability can yield comparable—if not superior—results at a fraction of the cost. This could influence future defense strategies, encouraging other nations to explore similar integrations of legacy munitions with modern delivery systems. The success of Ukraine’s drone-artillery initiative may well serve as a blueprint for militaries seeking to modernize without breaking the bank.

Furthermore, the development and deployment of such systems foster domestic technological expertise. Ukrainian engineers, programmers, and defense specialists are gaining hands-on experience in designing, testing, and refining these hybrid platforms. This not only strengthens the country’s defense capabilities but also contributes to its broader technological ecosystem. The skills and innovations developed in wartime may later translate into civilian applications, from industrial drones to advanced robotics. In this way, the tactical use of drones with artillery shells becomes a catalyst for national growth and resilience.

The use of large Ukrainian drones to deliver 155mm artillery shells exemplifies a bold and effective strategy in modern warfare. It combines cost-efficiency, precision, and ingenuity to create a weapon system that is both practical and powerful. By repurposing existing materials and embracing technological integration, Ukrainian forces have demonstrated a forward-thinking approach that could reshape the future of military operations. This tactic not only enhances battlefield performance but also reflects a deeper philosophy: that innovation thrives not in abundance, but in necessity.