drones

Small unmanned aerial systems (drones) can be employed as 'flying improvised explosive devices' (flying IEDs); such threats are relatively inexpensive to produce, can incorporate components made with 3D printing, and can traverse borders rapidly.

Missile and drone attacks on civilian power grids can cause rolling blackouts and disrupt electricity, heating, and water supplies.

In 2025, Russian aerial attacks on energy infrastructure have increasingly employed large numbers of drones, including drones equipped with cameras to improve targeting, creating challenges for air defenses.

States sometimes designate border areas as closed military zones and authorize security forces to use force to counter cross-border weapons smuggling, including smuggling assisted by drones.

State actors may combine economic measures (like sanctions) with kinetic operations, including drone and missile strikes, specifically targeting an adversary's energy infrastructure to increase pressure.

The United States both manufactures drones domestically and purchases drones from foreign suppliers.

Military fortifications and positions along cease-fire or control lines commonly include outposts, sand berms of multiple stories in height, barbed wire, manned troop positions, armored vehicles such as tanks, access roads, and aerial drones for observation.

Drones and missile strikes have been widely used in recent conflicts to attack civilian infrastructure, including residential buildings, schools, and hospitals.

Unmanned aerial vehicles (drones) can be used for intelligence gathering, including observing the locations of military aircraft and munitions.

Autonomous ground vehicles can deploy drones equipped with thermal cameras to extend aerial surveillance, monitor larger areas, and assist during active incidents.