In Sweden, Ukrainian drone operators demonstrated their combat experience during the Aurora 2026 exercises
Sweden hosted the culminating phase of the international military exercise Aurora 2026—one of the largest security events in the Baltic region. Ukrainian military personnel took part in the maneuvers and demonstrated their expertise in the use of unmanned systems in modern warfare.
This was reported by the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
During the final stage of the exercises, the use of various types of weaponry was practiced, including armored vehicles, aircraft, and unmanned systems
Fighter jets carried out missions to strike ground targets, while Ukrainian drone operators demonstrated real combat experience in the use of UAVs and the destruction of targets in modern warfare conditions.
Representatives of partner countries, military delegations, and international media observed the exercises. Particular interest was generated by Ukraine’s experience in using FPV drones, coordination between units, and modern combat tactics.
Participants noted that Aurora 2026 is an important platform for enhancing interoperability among partner nations’ armies, exchanging practical experience, and preparing for modern security challenges.
During the large-scale Aurora 26 exercises in Sweden, Ukrainian military personnel took on the role of instructors in the combat use of drones. They are training Swedish anti-aircraft gunners in new tactics that have already been tested in real combat conditions.
NATO stated that it remains confident in its defense capabilities following the U.S. decision to withdraw some troops from Germany. The Alliance says this is a signal for Europe to invest more in its own security.
As a reminder, the Pentagon has decided to withdraw approximately 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany. The process is planned to be carried out over the next six to twelve months. This is part of a review of U.S. troop deployments in Europe.
Berlin acknowledges that the continent will have to strengthen its own defense more quickly and more seriously to compensate for the gradual reduction of the American presence.
