**Ukraine Seeks to Boost Drone Production Amid Escalating Russian Attacks**
In a move to counter Russia’s increasing use of attack drones, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on local drone manufacturers to step up production and meet the country’s growing demand for interceptor drones. The goal is ambitious: at least 1,000 interceptors per day.
This request comes as Russia continues to escalate its use of Shahed-type attack drones against Ukraine, including a devastating July 9 assault that saw Moscow launch 741 aerial weapons in a single day. Zelensky met with representatives from various drone manufacturers and emphasized the need for domestic production to scale up rapidly.
**Detecting and Neutralizing Aerial Threats**
Interceptor drones are designed to detect, track, and neutralize other drones or aerial threats. With Russia’s increasing use of attack drones, Ukraine sees this capability as increasingly vital to defend its cities from barrages. Zelensky’s request highlights the urgency of the situation.
**Russia’s Drone Ambitions**
According to Ukrainian intelligence, Moscow aims to produce 30,000 long-range drones and 2 million FPV (first-person-view) drones in 2025. This is a staggering number that underscores Russia’s determination to use drones as a key component of its military strategy.
**Ukraine’s Funding Needs**
Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal has told allies that Ukraine will need $6 billion in 2025 to cover its weapons production gap, with a priority on producing more drone interceptors. The country is facing significant financial challenges as it seeks to boost its military capabilities to counter Russia’s aggression.
**Russia’s Drone Threats**
Zelensky has warned that Russia may begin launching up to 1,000 drones per day, while Germany’s Maj. Gen. Christian Freuding has stated that Moscow hopes to fire 2,000 drones each night towards Ukraine. The stakes are high, and the need for Ukraine to boost its drone production is clear.
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