More than 140 Ukrainian drones approved for use since beginning of 2024 – Ministry of Defence

More than 140 unmanned aerial vehicles and 33 ground robotic systems made in Ukraine have been approved for use by the Defence Forces of Ukraine in the first nine months of 2024.

Source: Colonel Volodymyr Rochniak, Head of the Main Directorate for Life Cycle Support of Arms and Military Equipment

Details: The Ministry of Defence reported that compared to last year, when 60 drones and 9 ground robots were approved, the pace of production and deployment has increased significantly. 

Rochniak emphasised that Ukrainian weapon manufacturers are adapting to the new requirements of the line of contact by creating unmanned systems for various tasks.

Quote: "The role of unmanned systems is growing rapidly on the battlefield. Ukrainian weapon manufacturers quickly respond to the needs of the line of contact by producing various types and purposes of aerial drones and ground robotic systems."

Details: He said that Ukrainian weapons manufacturers are actively developing the production of aviation drones for various purposes – kamikaze, bomber, reconnaissance, and observer drones. There are also drones of different types – aircraft, copter, tactical, operational, and strategic – and with different ranges. Ground-based robotic systems also perform a wide range of tasks: attack, reconnaissance, logistics, evacuation, engineering, etc.

The Ministry of Defence also reported that of all the drones authorised for use this year, more than 40% were codified during the third quarter of 2024.

Background: 

• Ukraine deregulated the explosives market and is preparing to issue grants for gunpowder factories.
• Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) believe that Ukraine is increasing the production of weapons, military equipment and drones, but still needs significant Western assistance in countering Russian aggression.
• Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umierov said that information about a major missile programme would be presented by the end of this year or early next year.
• Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal said that Ukraine would produce 1.5 million drones by the end of the year. He said that Ukraine is working with its partners every day to increase arms supplies and strengthen the development of its own defence industry.

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