Ukraine to purchase $89 Million worth of kamikaze drones to counter Russian forces.

On August 1, 2024, the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine signed significant agreements with Ukrainian manufacturers to supply ground-based kamikaze drones and ammunition. Facilitated by the Defense Procurement Agency, these agreements are valued at UAH 3.7 billion ($89.931.941). Deputy Defense Minister Dmytro Klimenkov emphasized the strategic relevance of these agreements, noting their importance in maintaining a steady supply of unmanned aerial vehicles and ground-based kamikaze drones, which are designed to counter enemy forces and form a part of Ukraine's defense strategy.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Ukraine possesses various all-terrain kamikaze drones, such as the ARK-1, which can be controlled from a safe distance of up to 20 kilometers. (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)

Additionally, the Defense Procurement Agency secured an agreement for the production of various types of ammunition. Marina Bezrukova, Director of the Defense Procurement Agency, indicated that these agreements, totaling more than UAH 3.7 billion ($89.931.941), reflect the Ministry's objective to incorporate advanced technologies and support the national industry.

During a visit to the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities under the President of Ukraine, attended by Klimenkov, the significance of these agreements was reiterated. Klimenkov mentioned that these drones are expected to be assets for the Ukrainian military in executing tasks against enemy targets.

Moreover, Klimenkov disclosed that Ukrainian companies contribute over 80 percent of logistics procurement and 70 percent of weapons procurement for the Ministry of Defense. Despite this contribution, the procurement of body armor that meets the stringent sixth-grade requirements remains challenging. Klimenkov pointed out the difficulties faced by Ukrainian manufacturers in producing sufficient quantities and sourcing this class of body armor from abroad.

The Ministry of Defense has introduced the "PartnerMOD" platform, a digital initiative designed to streamline the defense procurement process. This platform aims to provide manufacturers and suppliers with clear guidelines on the documentation and technical requirements necessary to participate in defense contracts. The portal seeks to increase competition and improve the quality of goods supplied to the Armed Forces by offering a transparent and efficient mechanism for interaction with the Ministry of Defense. Defense Minister Rustem Umyerov noted the importance of digitalization as a measure against corruption and plans to further digitize all support processes within the Ministry to ensure a more transparent and efficient procurement system.

Another example of these UGVs is the "Ratel S," a battery-powered, four-wheel-drive vehicle capable of carrying a 40-kilogram payload and operating with a first-person view (FPV) system. (Picture source: Ukraine's Minister of Digital Transformation)

Ukraine's use of kamikaze unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) has become a component of its defense strategy against Russian forces. These ground-based drones, designed to carry explosive payloads, are utilized in various combat roles to target enemy positions and equipment.

In 2024, the head of Ukraine's strategic industries, Oleksandr Kamyshin, emphasized the importance of these systems, declaring it "the year of land systems." This statement reflects Ukraine's increased production and deployment of UGVs on the battlefield. Ukrainian manufacturers, both state-backed and commercial, have increased the production of these vehicles to support the military's needs.

One example of these UGVs is the "Ratel S," a battery-powered, four-wheel-drive vehicle capable of carrying a 40-kilogram payload and operating with a first-person view (FPV) system. It can deliver anti-tank mines and other explosives to enemy positions from a safe distance. The Ratel S has undergone field tests and has entered mass production. Another notable UGV is the "Ironclad," a multifunctional vehicle equipped with a 12.7mm automatic cannon. This vehicle can perform a range of tasks, including combat operations, logistics, and medical evacuations. It is remotely controlled and uses communication networks to extend its operational range.

Ukrainian kamikaze drones have also been used in long-range operations targeting strategic sites within Russia. Ukrainian forces have employed these drones to strike oil refineries, military airfields, and other critical infrastructure, causing disruptions. For example, Ukrainian drones hit two oil refineries in Tatarstan, demonstrating their ability to reach deep into enemy territory and conduct precise attacks, as these vehicles provide Ukraine with a method to counterbalance the numerical superiority of Russian forces while minimizing risks to personnel.