**Russia Establishes Separate Drone Warfare Branch: A Strategic Shift in Modern Warfare**
In a significant move, Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced the creation of a dedicated military branch for unmanned systems. This development comes as both Russia and Ukraine intensify their use of drones in battlefield operations.
Speaking during a meeting on the state armament program, Putin noted that Russia has accumulated substantial experience to create this new branch of the armed forces. The move includes personnel training, manufacturing, and deployment of modern equipment. This decision reflects Russia’s growing recognition of drones as a critical component of modern warfare.
**The Rise of Drones in Modern Warfare**
Unmanned systems have become increasingly central to battlefield operations, enabling deep strikes and surveillance. Ukraine has already formalized its drone-based operations with the establishment of the Unmanned Systems Forces (USF) in June 2024. The USF has since launched hundreds of deep strikes into Russian territory.
Russia, on the other hand, has stepped up its drone production over the past year, launching Iranian-designed Shahed-type suicide drones in near-daily attacks on Ukrainian cities. According to reports, Moscow aims to produce up to 500 drones daily, with manufacturers gearing up to manufacture 300-350 drones each day. This increased production is supported by a steady flow of components from China and a workforce that includes teenagers and foreign laborers from African countries.
**A Strategic Shift**
The Kremlin’s move mirrors Kyiv’s earlier military reform, indicating Russia’s growing understanding of the importance of drones in modern warfare. As drone technology continues to evolve, both Russia and Ukraine are investing heavily in their respective unmanned systems programs. This shift towards a more integrated and technologically advanced military reflects the changing nature of modern conflict.
**The Significance of this Move**
The creation of a separate drone warfare branch in the Russian military highlights the growing importance of unmanned systems on the battlefield. As both Russia and Ukraine intensify their use of drones, the implications for modern warfare are significant. This development underscores the need for military forces to adapt and invest in cutting-edge technologies to remain competitive.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
