Analyses from international defense think tanks or military capability reports

Russia to Form Unmanned Systems Forces by 2025 Under Putin's Directive

Dec 16, 2024, 01:04 PM

Russia has announced plans to establish a new branch of its armed forces dedicated to unmanned systems, following an order from President Vladimir Putin. Defense Minister Andrei Belousov proposed the initiative during a Defense Ministry meeting, stating that the formation of these specialized troops, known as the 'Unmanned Systems Forces,' is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2025. Belousov emphasized the need to improve the tactical and technical features of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), focusing on expanding their operational range, enhancing autonomy, and increasing resistance to electronic interference. This move comes as part of a broader strategy to enhance Russia's military capabilities in response to the growing use of drones in modern warfare, with the military currently using more than 3,500 drones a day.