Russia-Ukraine WarEurasia
Ukrainian drones outperform US forces in Germany exercise: Report
‘Combined Resolve’ exercise repeatedly detected, neutralized US units during simulated combat
Berk Kutay Gökmen
13 August 2026•Update: 13 August 2026
İSTANBUL
Ukrainian drone operators reportedly outperformed US troops and armored vehicles during a military exercise in Germany, highlighting the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern warfare, according to media reports Wednesday
The Wall Street Journal said Ukrainian forces participating in the “Combined Resolve” exercise in April and May repeatedly detected and neutralized US units during simulated combat
Around 3,500 US personnel, primarily from the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, took part in the exercise. Ukrainian troops from the 412th Regiment of Unmanned Systems Forces supported the opposing force during the drills
Ukrainian reconnaissance drones quickly identified US armored vehicles, which were then targeted by explosive-carrying drones and first-person-view (FPV) drones. US officials reportedly said a US armored brigade was effectively eliminated in the exercise
The US units initially struggled despite having electronic warfare and counter-drone equipment. Their performance reportedly improved after troops adopted better concealment, dispersal and electronic warfare tactics
