The 1st Battalion of the Irish Guards has dramatically expanded its drone capabilities after working with Ukrainian forces, with 78 of its 300 soldiers now qualified as drone operators. The battalion has built a dedicated training facility including a drone obstacle course and a new 'drone hub' for repairs and 3D printing of parts.

Lt. Col. Ben Irwin-Clark said the experience with Ukrainian troops revealed how central drones have become to modern warfare. Ukrainian soldiers, many with recent front-line experience, shared hard-won lessons that have reshaped the battalion's training approach. The unit now views 60 hours of flying time as the minimum needed for competence.

Ukraine's extensive drone warfare experience has outpaced Western militaries, and the Irish Guards are adapting quickly. Soldiers are requesting weekend flying hours, and the battalion has incorporated Ukrainian-recommended practices like anti-drone nets and simulator training. The 'drone hub' represents a first for the British Army, with plans to make it mobile for field operations. Irwin-Clark admitted he underestimated how much his unit would learn from Ukrainian forces, calling the exchange a wake-up call for modern military preparedness.