UK intel reveals drone count launched by Russia on Ukraine over last month

The UK Defense Ministry stated that "Russia launched approximately 2,300 One Way Attack Uncrewed Aerial Systems (OWA UAS) of varying types into Ukraine in the month of November 2024, once again surpassing the previous month's total."

According to the report, the number of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has been steadily increasing throughout the year, with a significant increase of more than 200 units compared to the previous month since July 2024.

At the same time, the growth rate from October to November decreased compared to the previous months. Data for December 2024 indicate approximately 850 launches. 

However, as noted by UK intelligence, it is likely that the weather affected operations in December, as evidenced by some nights with significantly larger waves after a period of low or no activity.

"With no impact on launch sites or production, it remains likely that Russia can sustain numbers at least in excess of 1,500 per month. Russian OWA UAS maintain coverage of targets across the entirety of Ukraine, enabling Russia to maintain pressure while allowing Long Range Aviation Missile stocks to replenish," the report says.

• A warehouse in Russia's Alabuga special economic zone, which stored parts for Shahed-136 drones used in attacks against Ukraine, caught fire.