India, Oct. 19 -- Ukraine's reported launch of more than 1,000 drones against Russia has highlighted how unmanned systems, artificial intelligence (AI) and electronic warfare are reshaping modern combat, as both sides seek to overwhelm air defences while reducing their reliance on conventional weapons.

Russia's Ministry of Defence said on October 18 that its air defence systems had neutralised 1,015 Ukrainian drones across 15 Russian regions, Crimea and the Black Sea. The figure, released by Moscow, has not been independently verified. The attack reportedly set fire to an oil export terminal and an oil depot in St. Petersburg. Russian officials also reported damage and disruption associated with the strikes, while technology company VK a...