The Analytical Department and our automated systems process thousands of observations. For operational security reasons, the vast majority of reports are distributed solely to the Defence Forces of Ukraine. Only isolated, carefully selected fragments, cleared of in-depth analytics and key findings, are made available to the public.
Airborne Mine Reconnaissance: Effectiveness Assessment of UAS with Thermal Payloads for Mine-Explosive Obstacle Detection
Analysis confirms that utilizing Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) equipped with thermal imaging payloads for mine detection is an unreliable method. Relying solely on this technique generates a false sense of security and carries significant operational risks of failing to detect explosive ordnance.
The Operational Challenge
In June 2023, a concept regarding the detection of landmines using thermal-equipped UAS gained significant traction within the information environment. The hypothesis suggested that after sunset, mines emit thermal energy accumulated during the day, creating a contrasting thermal signature detectable from an altitude of 60-70 meters. This information rapidly proliferated among UAS operators and adjacent units, creating a risk of unsystematic and hazardous application of this unverified tactic on the forward line of own troops.
Analytical Assessment
The Analytical Department conducted consultations with mine safety and aerial reconnaissance subject matter experts, alongside a review of historical employment in previous armed conflicts. The assessment identified critical limitations in thermal reconnaissance: it is incapable of detecting tripwires, non-metallic mines, and buried explosive devices. Furthermore, the method's efficacy is highly contingent upon weather conditions and temperature fluctuations. There is a high probability of false positives triggered by rocks or other metallic debris. Adversary forces, aware of this tactic, can employ countermeasures by deliberately scattering metallic clutter or decoys to disrupt the engineering reconnaissance process.
Conclusions and Recommendations
The employment of thermal-equipped UAS for mine detection must not be utilized as a standalone engineering reconnaissance method. This tool should be considered strictly as an auxiliary component within a comprehensive approach, integrating intelligence from reconnaissance elements, signals intelligence (SIGINT), visual indicators (vehicle tracks, sapper markings), and cross-unit information sharing. The detection and neutralization of explosive ordnance must mandate the involvement of certified explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) and mine safety specialists.