Defence Forces arsenal expands with 650 new unmanned aerial systems since the start of the year
Since the start of the year, the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine has codified 650 unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and authorized them for use by the Defence Forces.
Most of them are made in Ukraine.
Strike copter-type UAVs lead the way in codification
Among all UAV types, strike copters account for the largest number of codified models: 238 new ones. These are relatively inexpensive, high-precision weapons for striking enemy personnel and equipment on the front line.
In addition, 231 UAVs with fiber-optic control links were authorized for use. Their main advantage is resistance to enemy electronic warfare (EW) systems.
The arsenal of Ukrainian defenders also expanded with 42 new interceptor drones. These play an important role in modern air defence, destroying enemy drones effectively at a relatively low cost.
Over 40 middle strike and deep strike drones codified
The Ministry of Defence has codified 32 middle strike UAVs so far this year. They deliver strikes against the enemy operational rear, including its logistics.
At the same time, 9 deep strike drones were authorized for use by the Defence Forces. Drones of this type make it possible to strike deep into Russian territory, raising the cost of the war against Ukraine for the enemy.
As was previously reported, the Ministry of Defence codified and authorized for supply to the Defence Forces 1,526 new weapons and military equipment models in the first eight months of 2026. Nearly 91% of them are made in Ukraine.
