Ukraine’s Commander-in-Chief, Oleksandr Syrskyi, emphasized the strategic importance of drones in gaining an edge over the “numerically superior” Russian forces. This statement was made following a meeting with his deputy, Vadym Sukharevskyi, on Monday.
Ukraine’s Drone Strategy
“The development and deployment of unmanned systems is my priority,” declared Syrskyi. He further explained that Ukraine is seeking “asymmetric solutions” to gain a qualitative advantage over a numerically superior opponent. This strategy is a response to the increased use of drones by both sides, which has shifted the conflict from the battlefield to strikes on military, energy, and transport infrastructure.
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Russian Forces and Ukraine’s Response
Despite being outgunned and outnumbered on the battlefield, the Ukrainian military continues to resist the pressure exerted by Moscow’s forces along the entire frontline. Russian President Vladimir Putin, who recently secured another six-year term, affirmed Russia’s advantage on the battlefield and pledged to continue his military operation.
Ukraine’s Drone Development
In response to the escalating conflict, Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskiy ordered the creation of a separate branch of Ukraine’s armed forces dedicated to drones in February. Sukharevskyi was appointed to oversee the development and deployment of these unmanned systems. Military analysts suggest that drones could potentially provide Ukraine with a technological advantage over Russia, despite its shortages in artillery shells and other traditional weapons.
Impact of Drone Attacks
As drones become smaller, more lethal, and capable of traveling further, Ukraine has utilized them to attack oil refineries inside Russia, reportedly knocking out an estimated 7% of its refining capacity in the first quarter. Ukraine’s air and sea drone attacks on Russia’s Black Sea Fleet in Crimea have also prompted the Russian defense ministry to pledge to protect the fleet from future attacks.
