During a press conference in Kazakhstan on November 28, russian President Vladimir putin announced that the Ministry of Defense and General Staff are actively exploring the creation of a specialized drone service within the russian Armed Forces, according to a report from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW).
A military blogger affiliated with the russian Airborne Forces (VDV) noted that current russian drone units operate unofficially within other military units, often multitasking with their formal roles, such as conducting assaults or handling medical and engineering functions.
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An insider from the Kremlin has revealed that establishing this new drone service could take six months to a year. The process involves multiple reforms, such as expanding educational programs, registering new military specialties, and integrating volunteer projects into the Ministry of Defense’s bureaucracy.
However, according to ISW, russia’s attempt to centralize and formalize its informal drone units has already led to significant dysfunction within the military. The lack of a clear strategy for merging new technologies with established frameworks raises doubts about the effectiveness of this initiative.
With manpower shortages forcing tank crews, engineers, artillerymen, and communications specialists to fight as infantry, drone operators are likely to continue being deployed in assault roles despite their specialized skills.
Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Armed Forces continue to demonstrate the strategic advantage of a well-coordinated drone army. This year, Ukraine is set to receive €1.8 billion from the International Drone Coalition, a 20-nation initiative led by Latvia and the UK to bolster the Defense Forces with advanced drones.
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