US Exploring Major Drone Purchase from Ukraine
There’s ongoing discussion about potential technology deals for warfare between the US and Ukraine. Jack Keane, a senior strategy analyst, might shed light on these prospects, along with updates related to the nuclear deal with Iran.
In December 1941, neither President Roosevelt nor Prime Minister Churchill anticipated Japan’s surprise assaults, which effectively caught them off guard across the Pacific. The intelligence failures leading to the attack on Pearl Harbor were not just devastating but also reflected a gross underestimation of Japan’s capabilities; the British believed their Pacific bases were relatively secure.
Most Americans recall the tragedy of December 7, 1941. The British disaster in Singapore, which lasted a week, ended with surrender on February 15, 1942. Interestingly, there was little effort to defend the so-called “back door” of the peninsula, which seems puzzling in hindsight.
US Bases Under Threat from Drones: A Serious Concern
While surprise attacks can win individual battles, as seen with the defeat of Imperial Japan in 1945, they don’t ensure victory in the larger context. The scale of intelligence failures, reminiscent of events like 9/11, can prove devastating.
Ukraine recently highlighted the significant role of technology in warfare by executing a surprising drone attack deep within Russian territory, including locations in Siberia. Over a hundred commercial drones were smuggled into Russia and launched from trucks, successfully targeting several strategic bombers across five time zones.
Not too long after, Israeli drones were reportedly smuggled into Iran by the Mossad. They were deployed from within Iran for a significant operation on June 13, coinciding with a key attack on Iranian regime targets.
Now, in a somewhat unpredictable turn, drones from Ukraine have been utilized effectively. Both Russia and Iran, governed by authoritarian regimes, have dealt with surprising tactics in warfare.
In contrast, the United States operates as an open society, with security measures and borders that are openly discussed. For instance, on January 19, 2025—the day before President Trump’s inauguration—the southern border was noted for its accessibility. It raises questions about drone smuggling, which could be accomplished quite simply.
It’s somewhat concerning that US counterterrorism efforts may not fully prevent such attacks. Reports suggest troubling developments, such as Chinese-owned farmland situated next to various US military installations.
In Reedley, California, an illegal lab owned by a Chinese entity was uncovered back in late 2022, containing numerous biological materials and questionable activity. Allegations emerged regarding the distribution of false Covid-19 test kits linked to that lab.
While agriculture, recreational drones, and research labs might appear benign at first glance, it’s crucial to remain aware of emerging threats and how they might evolve into future conflicts. What’s essential is that authorities acknowledge these risks rather than treat them as mere anomalies or as fodder for entertainment.
