The Influence of Suicide Drones on the Nature of Modern Warfare

• Luke Nandasava Nabangala

  Kenya Defence Forces

  Author

• Daglous Gesora

  InsightVision Research and Technology Limited, Kenya

  Author

The Influence of Suicide Drones on the Nature of Modern Warfare provides a comprehensive overview of the significant disruptions caused by suicide drones, also known as loitering munitions, in modern warfare. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) carry explosives for precision attacks and hover above target zones before striking. This research examines how both state and non-state actors have expanded their use of suicide drones, altered established warfare doctrines, and created new challenges for air-based defence and strategic deterrence. The research combines qualitative content analysis, military reports, open-source intelligence, and specific conflict-based case studies to understand the impact of suicide drones in conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war, Hamas-Israel conflicts, and Hezbollah operations. The analysis includes data on drone strikes, casualties, damage statistics, and economic efficiency compared to traditional Air Force systems. The study highlights the legal challenges posed by these drones, particularly concerning International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and the Geneva Conventions. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need for immediate international regulations to prevent the misuse of suicide drones and ensure responsible deployment. Without global governance mechanisms, the unchecked spread of these drones could destabilize international security.

1. Luke Nandasava Nabangala, Kenya Defence Forces

   Luke Nandasava Nabangala is a highly experienced chief of personnel in the Kenyan Navy, specializing in security and disaster management. He has served as Directing Staff at prestigious institutions and coordinated a significant UNDP-Japan project. He is pursuing a PhD in Spatial Planning at Maseno University. He holds a master’s degree in project planning and management, a PGD in Strategic Studies, and a BSc in Military Science. He has published works on emerging threats and community resilience.

2. Daglous Gesora, InsightVision Research and Technology Limited, Kenya

   Daglous Gesora is a research consultant based in Nairobi, Kenya, affiliated with InsightVision Research and Technology Limited. His research interests span security, governance, international diplomacy, research methods, statistics, and environmental sciences. He examines governance structures influencing national and regional security dynamics and contributes to discussions on sustainable security solutions, diplomatic engagements, and governance reforms. His work explores the impact of global governance structures on security, stability, and development.
   

• pdf

Copyright (c) 2025 Luke Nandasava Nabangala , Daglous Gesora (Author)

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License.