Russian forces ramp up AI-driven drone deployment

AI-powered drones are being used in Russia in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Defense Minister Andrei Belousov confirmed the deployment of advanced drone units and highlighted plans for further expansion.
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Russia has announced a substantial increase in the use of AI-powered drones in its military operations in Ukraine. Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov emphasised the importance of these autonomous drones in battlefield tactics, saying they are already deployed in key regions and proving successful in combat situations. Speaking at a next-generation drone technology center, he called for more intensive training for troops to operate these systems effectively.

Belousov revealed that two units equipped with AI drones are currently stationed in eastern Ukraine and along Russia’s Belgorod and Kursk borders, where they are engaged in active combat. The AI technology enables drones to autonomously lock onto targets and continue missions even if control is lost. Plans are underway to form five additional units to conduct around-the-clock drone operations.

Russia‘s ramped-up use of AI drones comes alongside a broader military strategy to increase drone production by tenfold, with President Putin aiming to produce 1.4 million units by the year’s end. Both Russia and Ukraine have heavily relied on drones throughout the war, with Ukraine also using them to strike targets deep inside Russian territory.