Ukraine and Israel Show Off Powerful New Weapons for War - The New York Times

Strike drones have long become a familiar element of warfare, but only now have Ukraine and Israel demonstrated that their potential can be realized on a new level. According to The New York Times, both countries conducted operations in which drones were launched directly from enemy territory. This creates not only a tactical, but also a psychological advantage: the enemy is forced to fear not only external attacks but also threats from within. A new era: from defense to offense through surprise In the June 15, 2025 report by The New York Times, it is emphasized that such strikes combine traditional sabotage tactics with new technological capabilities. The idea of using an “internal” attack is not new — during the Cold War, spy ships and secret agents were used to plant explosive devices. But the ability to strike with drones from within enemy lines is a fundamentally new level. What does this look like in practice? - In Ukraine's case — hundreds of drones launched from Russian territory struck dozens of strategic targets. - In Israel's case — drones and missiles, secretly smuggled into Iran, destroyed air defense systems and interceptors. This was made possible by Israeli intelligence operations, including equipment delivery and the organization of agent networks. Cost-effectiveness and scale This new approach is not only destructive but also economically efficient. According to analysts, the cost of a single strike UAV can be under $10,000, while the target it can destroy may be worth tens of millions. Country Type of Operation Targets Hit Strategy Used Ukraine Strike from Russian territory Strategic bombers Mass launch of low-cost drones Israel Strike from within Iran Air defense systems, interceptors Secret delivery and assembly of drones What is not officially reported: the secrets of intelligence and their importance Many details of these operations are classified. This is done to protect data-gathering methods and agent identities. But even the known information is enough to understand: Ukraine and Israel have reached a new level of military art, where technology and intelligence are not just support tools for the front, but the key to victory. NAnews — Israel News continues to closely monitor the development of this tactic, as it affects the interests not only of two countries but of the entire architecture of global security. Mutual inspiration and a model for allies Both Ukraine and Israel are under constant pressure from enemies using terror and hybrid attacks. It is no surprise that these countries have become testing grounds for new tactics, which may be applied in other regions in the future — from Taiwan to Europe. NAnews — Israel News emphasizes: “The factor of surprise and internal strike is not just a military trick. It’s a message: wherever you hide — we will find you.” Red Thread: Technology + Intelligence = A New Doctrine The described operations are examples of modern warfare, where drones, sabotage networks, and cost-effective strikes operate as a single system. This approach not only delivers blows but also undermines the enemy's morale. When the enemy doesn’t know whether the next strike will come from the sky or from within — they lose the initiative. Conclusion by NAnews: Ukraine and Israel are not just repelling attacks. They are shaping a new understanding of the military future, where flexibility, secrecy, and precision are critical to success. https://nikk.agency/en/ukraine-and-israel-3/