Ukraine War Live Ticker +++ 19:51 Kyiv: Domestic Drones Dominate Battlefield
Ukrainian-built drones comprise 95% of those in usage in Kiev
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Ukraine's drone arsenal is predominantly homegrown, with over 95% of drones at the front line manufactured locally[1][2]. This marked shift is due to a rapid production surge as a result of the Russian invasion in 2022.
According to Deputy Defense Minister Valerii Tschurkin, Ukraine's drone output has grown significantly. What was once 20,000 small drones per month in early 2024 now reaches a staggering 200,000 monthly by April 2025[3]. The government aims to produce even more, with plans to surpass 2.5 million drones annually[4].
The diversification of drone models is also impressive, with over 330 new models approved in 2024 alone, compared to 75 in 2023[2]. This shift in strategy ensures a long-range surveillance and attack system that offsets manpower shortages and reduces reliance on foreign arms[3][4].
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The Ukrainian government has dedicated $1.3 billion to defense manufacturing in 2025, and anticipates raising additional funds through direct international purchases from Ukrainian producers[2][5].
- Ukraine to produce over 95% of drones used at front - Ministry of Defense
- Source: Ukrainian Defense Ministry - Drone production surge
- Ukraine scales up drone production in response to Russian aggression
- Exclusive: Ukraine to significantly increase domestic drone production - Defense Minister
- Ukraine looks to export its domestically-produced weapons to allies - Finance Ministry report
- The Ukrainian government agrees to allocate $1.3 billion towards defense manufacturing in 2025, with aims to expand production further through international purchases.
- The proliferation of domestically manufactured drones in Ukraine's battlefield has been confirmed, as over 95% of drones at the front line are locally produced.
- In line with their strategy to minimize reliance on foreign arms, Ukraine has confirmed plans to produce over 2.5 million drones annually, a marked increase from the 20,000 small drones per month in early 2024.