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Military technology discussion on drone combat moves to Riga, Ukraine's frank discourse on drone warfare is at the forefront.

Last week's Drone Summit in Rīga marked a significant milestone, being the inaugural event of its kind. Noteworthy is the recognition that drones have brought about a fundamental change...

In this report, the defence technology utilized in Ukraine discusses the unvarnished aspects of...
In this report, the defence technology utilized in Ukraine discusses the unvarnished aspects of drone combat at an event held in Riga.

Military technology discussion on drone combat moves to Riga, Ukraine's frank discourse on drone warfare is at the forefront.

In the heart of the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, an American-led initiative named Defense Tech for Ukraine (DTU) has emerged as a beacon of hope for the Ukrainian defense forces. The organisation, spearheaded by Jonathan Lippert, the President of DTU, is focused on enhancing Ukraine's drone technology, a critical aspect in modern warfare.

DTU, an initiative dedicated to supporting Ukraine's defense capabilities, is not only backed by Lippert but also by a volunteer force of over 200 engineers, soldiers, technologists, and volunteers. The organisation aims to accelerate the development, production, and deployment of drone-related defense technologies to strengthen Ukraine’s military effectiveness.

Carl Larson, a US Army veteran and the executive director of DTU, has been vocal about the importance of this initiative. He believes that Ukraine's fight against Russian aggression affects the future of the world and sees it as a crucial cause. Larson, who served in Iraq and later volunteered to serve in Ukraine's foreign legion, has been a key figure at the Summit, speaking at the main stage.

Larson has highlighted the incredible creativity and ability to improvise shown by Ukrainians, such as the creation of a cheap but effective flying recoilless shotgun to down enemy drones. However, he also warned about the psychological strain troops under drone surveillance may experience, and the potential for combat stress and PTSD to lead to "a generation of damaged men and women."

While Russia continues to produce large numbers of deadly drones despite international sanctions, efforts like DTU are crucial in bolstering Ukraine's defense technology capabilities. The organisation is dedicated to building an ecosystem to support drone development, testing, and engineering, and facilitating international collaboration for technology transfer and training.

DTU's role aligns with broader trends documented in military technology developments during the conflict, where commercial and defense technologies, especially UAVs and space-based assets, have played a pivotal role in augmenting Ukraine’s military operations.

If you wish to support DTU, you can visit their website at defensetechforukraine.org. Lippert finds a sense of achievement in knowing that the organisation's efforts may have saved a life in Ukraine, a testament to the impact of DTU's work.

Despite the controversies surrounding Larson's assertions at the summit, particularly his message about American leadership in Ukraine, the organisation continues to garner support and make a significant impact in the ongoing conflict. Larson's battle dress bearing the name 'GRINCH' remains a mystery, adding another layer to the intrigue surrounding this dedicated group of volunteers.

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