Hezbollah’s fibre-optic drones pose new challenge for Israel
Hezbollah has deployed low-cost fibre-optic drones in southern Lebanon, presenting a new tactical challenge for Israeli forces despite their advanced military capabilities. These drones, which are difficult to detect and jam due to their wired guidance systems, have already caused casualties among Israeli troops and contractors. Israel is now seeking new defensive solutions while relying on temporary measures like nets and barriers.
- ▪Hezbollah's fibre-optic drones are guided by a thin cable, making them immune to electronic jamming and hard to detect.
- ▪The drones have killed two Israeli soldiers and one civilian contractor in under a week, despite a ceasefire in place since mid-April.
- ▪Israel's military currently lacks effective countermeasures and is exploring options like laser defenses and protective netting.
- ▪Hezbollah's media chief confirmed the drones are being manufactured locally and used to exploit Israeli vulnerabilities.
- ▪Ukraine offered drone warfare expertise to Israel years ago, but the offer was reportedly not acted upon.
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Hezbollah’s fibre-optic drones pose new challenge for IsraelSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxIsraeli troops have been fighting Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Lebanon since early March.PHOTO: REUTERSPublished May 02, 2026, 11:20 AMUpdated May 02, 2026, 11:20 AMJERUSALEM – Hezbollah’s cheap fibre-optic drones are creating new challenges for Israeli troops in southern Lebanon, forcing the military to adapt its tactics against an increasingly lethal threat.The Israeli military – considered one of the most advanced in the world – has confirmed two soldiers and one civilian contractor killed in explosive drone attacks in under a week, with several others wounded despite a ceasefire in place since mid-April.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.