KYIV/BERLIN, July 18 (V7N) — Ukraine’s war with Russia is increasingly dominated by drone warfare, with both countries producing and deploying millions of drones annually. The emergence of vast “kill zones” along the front lines has slowed Russian advances and given Ukrainian forces critical breathing space.
 
Ukrainian military officials say over 95% of the drones used on the front lines are now domestically produced. In 2024, Ukraine manufactured more than 2.2 million drones and aims to nearly double production in 2025 to 4.5 million. These include FPV (first-person-view) kamikaze drones and long-range attack drones capable of reaching targets up to 800 miles inside Russian territory.
 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that talks are ongoing with the United States for a “drone mega-deal” that would include advanced UAVs and potential co-development projects. This is part of a broader plan to increase domestic weapons production to 50% of Ukraine’s defense needs by late 2025.
 
Russian forces have also intensified drone production, using Chinese components and fiber-optic control systems that are less susceptible to electronic jamming. The result is a rapid evolution in battlefield tactics, where drones are used for both surveillance and high-precision strikes.
 
Despite the technological edge, Ukrainian commanders warn that drones cannot fully replace heavy artillery and long-range weapons. The country continues to rely on Western air defense systems and satellite intelligence to counter large-scale Russian offensives.
 
The widespread use of drones has reshaped modern warfare, making the front lines deadlier and more complex. Ukrainian troops refer to the battlefield as a “drone war zone,” where even minor movements are constantly monitored and targeted.
 
News Source: Reuters......
 
END/WD/SMA/