Briefly

The Ministry of Defense published the 2025 results of the Army of Drones project. According to Minister Mykhailo Fedorov, operators struck nearly 820,000 enemy targets, among them — more than 240,000 occupiers eliminated, as well as thousands of pieces of equipment and UAVs. These are results worth reading not as a flashy headline, but as a signal of a change in tactics and the defense’s resource potential.

“In 2025, within the framework of the Army of Drones project, nearly 820,000 enemy targets were struck; more than 240,000 occupiers eliminated; 62,000 strikes on light vehicles, 29,000 on heavy vehicles, 32,000 strike and reconnaissance UAVs.”

— Mykhailo Fedorov, Minister of Defense (summary of the event “Army of Drones – 2025”)

What exactly was announced

The official figures describe a wide range of results: from striking ground vehicles to neutralizing personnel and destroying enemy drones. The project, launched in 2022, combines state procurement, volunteer initiatives and domestic production — and it is this mix that produced the scale effect.

Why this matters

First, such figures illustrate a shift in operational logic: mass, daily support drones are becoming not only tools for reconnaissance but instruments of continuous pressure on the enemy. Second, this reduces risks for infantry — strike tasks are carried out at range. Finally, the numbers send a signal to international partners about the effectiveness of investments and support.

Who is on the list of leaders

The minister named units and manufacturers that showed the best results: among them — “Madyar’s Birds”, the SBU special unit “Alpha”, “Lazar’s Group”, several assault brigades and battalions of unmanned systems. This underscores the joint contribution of regular forces, security services and volunteer networks.

Limitations and risks

Despite the impressive numbers, experts point to two caveats: first, official data require independent verification in specific cases; second, the adversary plans to scale up its UAV forces — according to reports, in 2026 the Russians may increase their contingent of unmanned systems to over 160,000 personnel. This means the technological and tactical advantage requires constant updating and protection against countermeasures.

Context: how the project works

Army of Drones is a state initiative that combines procurement, operator training and the development of local production. An important element of its success is the combination of state coordination with the flexibility of volunteer networks and charitable fundraising: this is how a fast supply and maintenance chain for drones is formed.

Conclusion

These results are not only a reason for pride but also a clear marker: the war is increasingly defined by technology, logistics and human capital. Now the question is for partners and the system: will it be possible to turn declarations and one-day successes into a stable position protected from escalation? The answer will determine how long Ukraine will retain an advantage in this dimension of the war.