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Russia Follows Ukraine’s Lead with New Military Branch for Unmanned Systems

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Liubava Petriv
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Russia Follows Ukraine’s Lead with New Military Branch for Unmanned Systems
Russian leader Vladimir Putin gestures during his meeting with local business leaders at the Saint Yekeaterina’s Hall of the Kremlin, May 26, 2025 in Moscow, Russia. (Source: Getty Images)

Russian leader Vladimir Putin announced plans to formally establish unmanned systems as a separate branch within the country’s armed forces.

The statement was made during a meeting on the development of Russia’s new state armament program, according to the state news agency TASS on June 12.

“We need to ensure the fastest and highest-quality deployment of these forces,” Putin said. “We know how the enemy operates. But overall, I don’t believe we’re lagging behind in this area. On the contrary, I think we have gathered solid experience that allows us to create this new branch.”

The initiative reflects Russia’s ongoing efforts to expand its use of drone technologies on the battlefield. The concept reportedly emerged in 2024, shortly after Ukraine established its own Unmanned Systems Forces as a new service branch within the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Putin also emphasized the need to integrate advanced digital tools and artificial intelligence into future weapons systems.

“Russia must broadly introduce advanced digital technologies and artificial intelligence into its armaments,” Putin stated.

As part of the same meeting, Putin instructed military leadership to significantly boost the combat capabilities of Russia’s ground forces under the new armament program, which will span from 2027 to 2036.

In addition, he called for the creation of a unified and comprehensive air defense system as a key component of the updated military strategy.

Previously, it was reported that Russia is converting Kerch airport in occupied Crimea into a drone launch hub.

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