Russia announces establishment of new drone warfare branch in Armed Forces by 2025

Defense Express reported the information.

Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov announced plans to create a new branch of forces specializing in unmanned systems, set to be finalized by late 2025. Meanwhile, the Russian leader Putin emphasized the need to increase drone production and enhance operator training, incorporating lessons from combat experience.

At the same time, Belousov noted in his report that Russia currently deploys over 3,500 drones daily on the battlefield (a figure that cannot be independently verified). He emphasized the primary task is to improve the tactical and technical characteristics of this equipment, focusing on three main areas: range, flight duration, and resilience against electronic warfare systems.

According to the Russians themselves, the establishment of the new branch of the armed forces involves developing "the theory and practice of conducting operational-scale combat operations."

“Overall, it seems that Russia plans to create a new structure not just on paper, but by taking into account all the specifics and needs, including personnel training and the reorganization of various training programs. How this will work in practice is another story,” the outlet noted.

Russia highlights the urgent need to form separate units for unmanned systems, primarily focusing on the air component, along with the required infrastructure and support. Plans include creating distinct divisions, with unmanned system units integrated into the army, air forces, and other branches, similar to air defense forces. Russian experts stress the importance of strategic reconnaissance drones and the need to replicate the United States' experience in this field.

Defense Express noted that in February this year, it became known that the Ukrainian Armed Forces would create a new branch – the Unmanned Systems Forces, and in June this year, a decree was signed to establish the Unmanned Systems Forces of the Ukrainian Armed Forces.