Ukraine’s Operation “Spider’s Web” redefines asymmetric warfare

Mains Relevance:

1. Strategic Significance:

• Marks a paradigm shift in modern warfare: strategic outcomes via low-cost drone warfare

• Demonstrates asymmetric warfare capabilities and vulnerabilities of even major powers

2. Intelligence and Logistics:

• Months of covert drone smuggling indicates deep logistical planning and intelligence capability

3. Implications for India:

• Lessons for India in counter-drone systems, homeland security, and indigenous drone technology

• Need for robust air defense and early warning systems (like Russia’s A-50)

4. Geopolitical Fallout:

• Raised tensions: Putin reportedly conveyed concern to former U.S. President Donald Trump

• Possible retaliatory escalation and further strain on global security environment

5. Broader Trends:

• Rise of DIY and commercial drone tech in warfare

• Challenges for international humanitarian law and norms of warfare

This case is a high-value example for GS Paper 3 (Security) and GS Paper 2 (International Relations).