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Over 140 New Drones Approved for Ukrainian Defense in 2024.
Since early 2024, Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense has authorized more than 140 new unmanned aerial systems for military use, reflecting a significant rise in the production and deployment of unmanned technology on the front lines. Alongside these aerial systems, 33 domestically produced robotic ground complexes have also been approved to meet various defense needs. This increase, as reported by the Ministry's press office, underscores the intensified pace of Ukraine’s defense production, where unmanned systems play an increasingly strategic role in military operations.
Ground robotic complexes, meanwhile, are engineered for various tasks, including strikes, reconnaissance, logistics, evacuation, and engineering operations (Picture source: Ukrainian MoD)
Ukraine is currently deploying several domestically produced drones and robots to support its operations. Among them is the Black Widow, a bomber drone recently approved for the Ukrainian armed forces. This model serves both as a kamikaze drone and in reconnaissance missions, operating day and night. Its modular design enables it to function in either reusable or single-use configurations based on mission requirements.
Ukrainian forces also use various ground robotic systems developed with the support of the Brave1 platform, a government-led initiative that fosters new military technologies. These robots undertake critical missions, including mine-laying, casualty evacuation, and battlefield logistics.
Another notable example is the deployment of stealth robot dogs designed for high-risk reconnaissance tasks, such as inspecting enemy trenches or detecting mines. These robots can also carry small supplies like ammunition and medical items to high-risk combat zones.
In comparison, only 60 drone systems and 9 robotic complexes were approved in 2023, illustrating how Ukrainian manufacturers are quickly adapting to battlefield needs. Colonel Volodymyr Rochniak, head of the Main Department of Lifecycle Support for Armaments and Military Equipment, has stated that Ukrainian manufacturers are intensifying efforts to develop various aerial drones for a wide range of missions. This includes kamikaze models, bombers, reconnaissance drones, and artillery spotters, with options ranging from airplane-type to helicopter-type drones. These technologies span tactical, operational, and strategic categories, adaptable to different battlefield environments.
Ground robotic complexes, meanwhile, are engineered for various tasks, including strikes, reconnaissance, logistics, evacuation, and engineering operations. This flexibility allows Ukrainian defense forces to diversify operational strategies by integrating unmanned units for specialized and often high-risk missions.
The Ministry of Defense has highlighted that over 40% of the authorized drones and ground robots in 2024 were approved in the third quarter, indicating the growth in national defense production. This expansion includes advanced unmanned systems designed to resist enemy electronic warfare, featuring radiotransparency, low-noise capabilities, and, in some cases, sophisticated guidance and self-destruction systems to enhance operational effectiveness in hostile environments.
This rapid development reflects Ukrainian arms manufacturers' responsiveness to frontline needs, producing drones and robots suited to a variety of purposes. The Ministry encourages weapon and military equipment developers with questions about the technology codification process to contact the Main Department of Lifecycle Support for official guidance.