Ukraine's Plan to Produce 'One Million' Reconnaissance Drones

Ukraine announced its intention to produce over one million reconnaissance drones and thousands of attack drones in 2024. Alexander Kamyshin, Ukraine's Minister of Strategic Industries, stated on Wednesday, December 20, that the country plans to produce one million reconnaissance and surveillance drones capable of being operated in a 'first-person' manner, as well as more than 11,000 medium and long-range attack drones next year. The 'first-person view' method is a way to control a radio-controlled vehicle from the perspective of the driver or pilot. Following the Russian invasion on February 24, 2022, Ukraine extensively utilized small 'FPV' drones, originally designed for civilian use, as a cost-effective option for identifying and attacking Russian positions. Subsequently, Russian forces also began using these types of drones in the conflict. It is now estimated that the Russian army possesses a larger number of these drones. Alexander Kamyshin mentioned on his Telegram channel that 'all production capabilities are ready, and the contract will be signed for next year.' He added that at least one thousand of these drones will have a range of equal to or greater than one thousand kilometers. According to this report, Ukraine is striving to increase its domestic weapons production and become more reliant on its own military capabilities rather than on foreign partners' assistance, which will also boost the country's economy. The Minister of Strategic Industries of Ukraine stated that in December, the country produced over 50,000 first-person view drones. Zelensky: The Ukrainian army is seeking to recruit an additional 450,000 to 500,000 personnel. The United Nations criticized Russia for failing to protect Ukrainian civilians. The Islamic Republic was once again accused in the Security Council; illegal missile tests and drone deliveries to Russia. Ukraine shot down five Russian drones.