Ukraine's Operation Vivaldi Sees Heavy Artillery Use Despite Drone Advances

A major counteroffensive push in eastern Ukraine, known as Operation Vivaldi, is highlighting the enduring importance of artillery on the battlefield despite the growing influence of drones.

The operation, which aims to retake territory near the city of Lyman, has incorporated a range of cutting-edge technologies, including drones and robotic systems, into its tactics. However, Ukrainian forces have also relied heavily on traditional artillery to achieve key victories and maintain pressure on enemy positions.

So far, Operation Vivaldi has yielded significant gains for Ukraine, with forces reportedly recapturing 176 square kilometers of territory by the end of September, according to the Third Army Corps, which is leading the effort.

The Ukrainian military's use of HIMARS systems has led to significant destruction of Russian equipment on the battlefield. According to the Third Army Corps, these strikes have resulted in the elimination of more than 20 artillery guns, two Buk air defense systems, and two transport-loading vehicles. In addition to destroying hardware, Ukrainian forces have also targeted Russian command posts at battalion level or higher.

The conflict has seen a shift from traditional artillery warfare to a greater emphasis on drone technology. At the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion, artillery played a key role, but drones have since become an essential component of both sides' arsenals. They are used not only for launching attacks and gathering intelligence but also for directing other forms of weaponry.

The success of drones has sparked debate about their implications for more traditional military equipment, such as tanks and artillery. Ukraine's defense minister, Mykhailo Fedorov, noted in July that drones accounted for a significant portion of Russia's front-line losses.

Ukraine is continuing to develop its artillery capabilities despite the growing use of drones on the battlefield. This includes multiple new artillery systems, and plans announced by the commander-in-chief in June to modernize the artillery forces.

Artillery remains a vital component of Ukraine's military strategy, particularly when used in conjunction with an increasing number of drones. Western analysts agree that heavy artillery is still essential for targeting hardened and protected infrastructure, which cannot be easily destroyed by drones alone.