‘Invisible’ Drones - Fibre-optic drones

From Ukraine to Lebanon, ‘Invisible’ Drones are Redefining Asymmetric Warfare -Indian Express 

Fibre-optic or “invisible” drones have come into focus as low-cost, difficult-to-detect weapons in modern conflicts from Ukraine to Lebanon. Their use by groups such as Hezbollah and by actors in the Russia-Ukraine war shows how such drones are challenging conventional air-defence and electronic-warfare systems. 

What are ‘Invisible’ Drones?

• These are fibre-optic drones connected to operators through long fibre-optic cables.
• Unlike normal drones, they do not rely on radio-frequency signals for communication.
• Since they produce almost no radio emissions, they are difficult to detect, jam or intercept.
• They transmit data through thin cables while flying, allowing real-time control and surveillance.
• Their operational range is usually around 20–30 km, though cable drag and breakage remain limitations.

Why are They Important in Modern Warfare?

• They provide a low-cost weapon option against advanced electronic-warfare systems.
• The Russia-Ukraine war has become a major testing ground for such drone warfare.
• These drones can bypass conventional jamming systems because they do not depend on GPS or radio control.
• Their use reflects the rise of asymmetric warfare, where weaker actors use cheap and innovative tools against stronger military forces.

Challenges in Tackling the Threat

• Fibre-optic drones are hard to detect because they have a very small radar cross-section.
• Their low speed, small size and absence of radio-frequency emissions make interception difficult.
• Traditional jamming systems are largely ineffective against them.
• Effective countermeasures require:
  • Real-time detection
  • Advanced radar systems
  • Electro-optic and infrared sensors
  • Multi-sensor and multi-shooter air-defence systems

Possible Countermeasures

• Some countries are experimenting with net-based systems to physically capture drones.
• Other solutions include electromagnetic interception systems and kinetic hit-to-kill interceptors.
• Armoured vehicles may use nets and metal enclosures to block or reduce drone impact.
• However, these methods are costly and not always fully effective.

Indian Context

• India has also witnessed drone-related threats, especially during recent tensions with Pakistan.
• Swarms and loitering munitions pose a major challenge to India’s security infrastructure.
• Experts suggest that India needs:
  • Better hard-kill counter-drone systems
  • Light Combat Helicopters and Light Combat Aircraft as airborne counter-drone platforms
  • AI-based detection and neutralisation systems
  • Upgradation of munitions
  • A hybrid and mobile air-defence system to improve accuracy and effectiveness.