Archive · 5 Jun 2025
Drone Software's Unexpected Role in Ukraine's War
Imagine some people created software, like a set of instructions, for toy airplanes.
They made it so anyone could use and change it.
This software, called ArduPilot, helps these toy airplanes fly themselves.
Recently, this software was used in a real war.
It helped Ukraine attack and damage some big planes.
The people who created the software were surprised because they didn't intend for it to be used this way.
The software helps the planes fly, even if the GPS signal is blocked, and is supposed to be used for peaceful things like helping in search and rescue missions.
Open-source software ArduPilot, created for hobbyist drones, allegedly powered a Ukrainian attack.
The attack reportedly destroyed a third of Russia's strategic long-range bombers.
ArduPilot's founders expressed surprise at the software's use in the war.
ArduPilot is free to use and can be modified for various purposes.
The software enables control of drone functions including GPS-linked mapping and autonomous flight.
- Who
- Ukraine used open-source software ArduPilot, originally created by Chris Anderson, Jordi Muñoz, and Jason Short.
- What
- ArduPilot software was used in an attack that allegedly destroyed a portion of Russia's strategic bombers.
- When
- The attack occurred recently.
- Where
- Ukraine, against Russian forces.
- Why
- To facilitate a series of small drone strikes, according to reports.
Open-source advocates
Proponents of restriction
Restrictions on Military Use
Open-source advocates
Open-source software should be free for all uses.
Proponents of restriction
Open-source software should have restrictions on military use.
- Software
- Open-source software system for drones
- ArduPilot Origin
- 2007
- Early Platform
- DIYdrones.com
- Software Features
- Autonomous flight and control
- Project Popularity (2023)
- Ukraine and Russia