Ukrainian Drone Operators Demonstrate NATO Vulnerabilities in Hedgehog 2025 Exercises

A group of 10 Ukrainian UAV operators struck 17 armored vehicles and 30 other targets in a simulated enemy scenario, exposing NATO's unpreparedness for modern drone warfare.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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During the Hedgehog 2025 military exercises held in May of the previous year, a team of 10 Ukrainian drone operators were able to "hit" 17 armored vehicles of a simulated enemy force and strike around 30 additional targets in just half a day, demonstrating that NATO armies are ill-equipped to handle the threat of modern drone warfare.

Why it matters

The Hedgehog 2025 exercises revealed serious tactical vulnerabilities in the combat capabilities of NATO forces, particularly when faced with the widespread use of drones. This raises concerns about the alliance's readiness to defend against emerging threats on the modern battlefield.

The details

More than 16,000 military personnel from 12 NATO countries participated in the Hedgehog 2025 exercises. According to reports, the alliance forces suffered a complete "defeat" when trying to go on the offensive in one of the scenarios, with their combat capability being lost due to a lack of disguise and open actions. Estonian Lieutenant Colonel Arbo Probal stated that the purpose of the exercises was achieved, as the defeat forced participants to critically evaluate their actions.

  • The Hedgehog 2025 exercises were held in May of the previous year.
  • The exercises revealed the vulnerabilities of NATO forces in just half a day of simulated combat.

The players

Ukrainian UAV Operators

A group of 10 Ukrainian drone operators who demonstrated their ability to effectively strike enemy targets during the Hedgehog 2025 exercises.

NATO

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, a military alliance of 30 member states, whose forces participated in the Hedgehog 2025 exercises and were found to be unprepared for modern drone warfare.

Arbo Probal

An Estonian Lieutenant Colonel who stated that the purpose of the Hedgehog 2025 exercises was achieved, as the defeat of NATO forces forced them to critically evaluate their actions.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

The Hedgehog 2025 exercises have exposed significant gaps in NATO's preparedness for modern drone warfare, raising concerns about the alliance's ability to effectively defend against emerging threats on the battlefield. This incident highlights the need for NATO to prioritize the development of countermeasures and tactical adaptations to address the growing drone threat.