Drone racers might seem like ideal combat pilots. But trainers say they have to relearn almost everything.

Ukraine's drone operators are discovering that the skills honed in competitive drone racing don't directly translate to the slower, more deliberate pace required for military operations. While racers focus on speed and agility, military drone training emphasizes precision, patience, and strategic decision-making over time. This mismatch highlights the need for specialized training programs that bridge the gap between recreational and professional drone piloting, underscoring the importance of adapting civilian skills to the more methodical demands of warfare.