Ukraine Says Russia Plans Big Drone Production Increase
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Summary: Kyiv’s top commander warns Moscow aims to build up to 1,000 drones a day against Ukraine.
Ukraine’s top military commander says Russia is gearing up to dramatically expand its production of attack drones this year, a move that underscores rising pressure on Kyiv’s forces and suggests little appetite in Moscow for a negotiated peace.
General Oleksandr Syrskyi, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, told local media that Russian forces are currently producing around 404 Iranian-designed “Shahed” drones daily — but plan to boost that output to as many as 1,000 drones a day in 2026.
Syrskyi’s comments, made in an interview published on Jan. 18, reflect a shift in Russia’s focus toward sustained drone warfare as a core part of its offensive operations on the battlefield. He said there are “no signs whatsoever” that Moscow intends to open serious peace talks, even as hostilities continue.
For Ukraine, the growth in drone production presents a significant tactical challenge. These drones are used for surveillance, targeted strikes, and disruptive actions, and a rise in drone attacks could put pressure on Kyiv's air defense capabilities and make frontline tactics more difficult.
Syrskyi highlighted that part of Kyiv’s strategy is to try to disrupt and degrade Russia’s drone production and deployment — not only to blunt attacks but also to create conditions that might eventually bring the Russians back to the negotiating table. He argued that “no one negotiates with the weak,” signalling Ukraine’s desire to avoid appearing defeated.
The escalation in Russia’s drone manufacturing comes as fighting remains entrenched. Russian forces hold roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory and have continued a slow advance in the east, while Ukraine has increased recruitment and training efforts to strengthen its own lines. Syrskyi also noted that Ukrainian military losses in 2025 were down about 13 % compared with the year before, even as Russian casualties climbed.
The drone surge announcement adds another layer to a conflict already marked by deep-strike campaigns, long-range missile attacks and relentless ground engagements. As both sides adjust their technologies and plans, drones become increasingly important in how the war is fought — and how it may evolve in the coming months.
