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“Volyniaka” Combat Drone Cleared for Frontline Duty in Ukraine’s Armed Forces
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![Ivan_khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has officially approved the domestically developed ‘Volyniaka’ unmanned aerial system for operational use in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
According to the Ministry’s announcement on June 15, the drone system has been codified and included in the inventory of military equipment authorized for deployment. The approval follows extensive battlefield usage since the early months of Russia’s full-scale invasion.
‘Volyniaka’ is a reusable hexacopter drone designed to engage a wide range of targets. Earlier models have already demonstrated combat effectiveness, reportedly neutralizing hundreds of enemy assets, including armored vehicles, fortified positions, and personnel concentrations.
The latest versions of the drone feature upgraded technical specifications. The system includes a ground control station, pilot goggles, a signal relay, and a six-motor electric drone platform. It is capable of operating under adverse weather conditions, at dusk, and in strong winds.
The drone is equipped to deliver aerial munitions capable of disabling heavily armored targets. It can also perform logistical missions, such as transporting equipment to front-line positions.
According to open-source data, ‘Volyniaka’ can carry payloads of up to 10 kilograms and has an operational range of approximately 30 kilometers. Its onboard camera is equipped with thermal imaging and a stabilizing mechanism, enhancing target acquisition in varied conditions.
The drone was developed for tactical deployment in complex battlefield environments, allowing Ukrainian forces to strike and supply with increased flexibility.
The Ministry’s decision to integrate ‘Volyniaka’ into official operations reflects ongoing efforts to expand Ukraine’s use of domestically produced UAVs to meet evolving battlefield requirements.
Earlier, Deputy Defense Minister Anatolii Klochko announced that Ukraine had reconfigured its Soviet-era Buk-M1 systems to fire new missiles as part of the FrankenSAM project, restoring them to combat readiness. He also confirmed ongoing plans to modernize the S-300, with results expected later in 2025.
