Ukraine paratroopers train as drones reshape war

Ukraine is still training new paratroopers in parachute jumps and gruelling ground drills even as instructors and trainees say drones have made battlefield airdrops impractical in the war with Russia.

At a training exercise in central Ukraine, instructors said parachute jumps are now mainly a test of discipline, fear and stress rather than a likely combat tactic. Axel, a 24-year-old instructor, said dropping personnel by parachute is impractical because enemy assets can neutralise them quickly.

Young officer Roman Kulievych said jumps behind enemy lines are “not practical at all” in modern warfare, but remain a tradition that builds character and distinguishes airborne troops.

Ukraine's defence ministry reported in July that drones now destroy about 90% of targets. Ground robots are also being integrated into combat and resupply missions, while troops on the front face long periods without rotation, food shortages and the risk of being spotted by drones.

Senior instructor Yuriy said technology may one day play an even larger role, but territory is still held only when soldiers are physically present. Trainee Karyi said humans remain central to the fighting, even as technology changes the battlefield.