How to Adapt in an Era of Algorithm Warfare

Foreign Policy

by Anne Neuberger

February 26, 2026

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How to Adapt in an Era of Algorithm Warfare

The rise of commercial technology has fundamentally transformed modern warfare, creating a new era of algorithm-driven conflict. Traditionally, precision strikes and advanced military systems were the preserve of major powers with vast budgets. Today, low-cost, off-the-shelf technologies like drones, satellite internet, and electronic warfare devices have democratized warfare, allowing even smaller nations or groups to challenge conventional military superiority. This shift has redefined how battles are fought, making attacks cheaper and more accessible while leaving defenders struggling to keep up. One of the most striking examples is the use of commercial drones. Ukrainian forces have deployed swarms of affordable, semi-autonomous drones to destroy high-value Russian assets like warships and tanks, which cost tens of millions of dollars each. Similarly, hobbyist-grade radio devices like HackRF have lowered the barrier to entry for electronic warfare, enabling soldiers to disrupt enemy communications and navigation systems. Meanwhile, companies like SpaceX have provided critical battlefield support through their Starlink satellite internet system, helping Ukraine maintain military communications despite Russian cyberattacks. The economic implications of this shift are profound. Defending against massed drone attacks or sophisticated GPS jamming often becomes prohibitively expensive. For instance, the U.S. military has spent millions using advanced missiles to counter cheap drones, highlighting how traditional defense strategies are becoming unsustainable in the face of these new threats. Meanwhile, the Pentagon is actively planning to deploy hundreds of thousands of drones by 2027, acknowledging the need to adapt to this evolving battlefield. This shift toward swarming tactics and rapid production underscores a fundamental change in military doctrine. The implications for global politics are significant. As smaller nations or non-state actors gain access to these technologies, the balance of power on the international stage is being rewritten. The ability to counter advanced military systems with low-cost, commercially available tools has created new asymmetries in warfare, challenging traditional notions of deterrence and military might. This transformation also raises questions about how nations can maintain strategic advantages in an era where commercial innovation often outpaces military development. Ultimately, the rise of algorithm warfare is reshaping global security dynamics. The speed and agility with which commercial technologies can be developed and deployed give a decisive edge to those who embrace them. As seen in Ukraine's defense against Russia, these tools enable asymmetric warfare

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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/26/2026