Barrel Wear Threatens Ukraine’s Firepower While Drones Surge Ahead.

Ukraine’s war effort is entering a phase where the balance between artillery and drones is shaping the battlefield in new ways. After years of relentless use, artillery barrels are wearing out at an accelerating pace, undermining accuracy and threatening the sustainability of Ukraine’s firepower. At the same time, drones have evolved from supplemental tools into core strike assets, increasingly compensating for artillery’s decline with precision and adaptability. This dual dynamic highlights both the resilience and the vulnerability of Ukraine’s military: innovation keeps operations viable, but shortages in artillery tubes pose a strategic risk. Western partners face mounting pressure to increase supplies, while Ukraine adapts tactically with drone warfare to preserve effectiveness. The contest between heavy firepower and unmanned precision strikes now defines Ukraine’s ability to hold the line and counter Russia’s offensive momentum.

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