Mideast Security and Policy Studies No. 212
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:The FPV drone revolution represents a paradigm shift in modern warfare, fundamentally altering tactical operations, force organization, and strategic thinking across all military dimensions.Combat evidence from the Russia-Ukraine conflict demonstrates the unprecedented lethality, operational scale, and tactical versatility of FPV systems. Yet most military establishments remain anchored to obsolete paradigms, failing to comprehend the implications of this transformation.
This analysis examines the cognitive and structural barriers impeding effective military adaptation, outlines the transformative potential of mass FPV deployment, and provides a strategic framework for integrating this capability into modern armed forces. FPV warfare signals a generational shift in military affairs—one that rewards early adopters and severely punishes those who hesitate.
Maj. Gen. (ret.) Dr. Yacov Bengo served in his last role as Head of the Planning Directorate of the IDF (J8). His military career spans over 34 years of service, primarily in the Armored Corps and in the General Staff.
Guy N. is an employee at Elbit Systems in the Communications and Cyber Division.