The Ministry of Defense of Ukraine has maintained its position as the country’s largest purchaser of drones over the past three years, significantly increasing the supply of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to its armed forces.
The growing procurement aligns with Ukraine’s strategic push to enhance its battlefield capabilities against Russian forces.
According to Hlib Kanevskyi, Director of the Procurement Policy Department at the Ministry of Defense, the number of drones delivered to the Armed Forces of Ukraine has surged in recent years. “If in 2023, the Ministry of Defense was purchasing drones in the thousands, by the end of 2024, we, along with the State Service of Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine, had procured more than 1.5 million drones,” Kanevskyi stated.
Kanevskyi emphasized that 96% of the total procurement spending went to Ukrainian manufacturers and suppliers, strengthening the country’s defense industry. The development of Ukraine’s domestic drone production sector has been a crucial aspect of the government’s efforts to achieve greater self-sufficiency in military technology.
“This year, the figures will be even higher because the capabilities of the domestic defense industry in 2025 are expected to reach approximately 4.5 million FPV drones. The Ministry of Defense plans to procure all of them,” Kanevskyi added.
The Ministry has allocated more than 110 billion UAH ($2,6 billion) for drone purchases in 2025, with over 102 billion UAH ($2,4 billion) funneled through the Defense Procurement Agency. Kanevskyi stressed that all procurement plans for 2025 have been fully funded, ensuring the rapid deployment of drones to frontline units.
The Ministry also highlighted the recent launch of drone production at a state-owned enterprise, announced in January 2025. This initiative is expected to enhance competition within the market.
Kanevskyi noted that maintaining minimal markups and government oversight at all production stages could encourage other manufacturers and suppliers to reduce prices, making drone procurement more cost-effective.
First-Person View (FPV) drones have become a crucial tool on the battlefield, allowing for real-time target engagement and reconnaissance. Unlike conventional UAVs, FPV drones provide operators with a live feed from an onboard camera, enabling precise maneuvering in complex environments. This technology has revolutionized military operations, particularly in Ukraine, where it has been used to counter Russian advances and disrupt enemy supply lines.
Combat applications of FPV drones:
- Kamikaze Strikes: FPV drones equipped with explosive payloads can precisely strike enemy vehicles, fortifications, and command posts.
- Surveillance and Targeting: These drones provide live intelligence, guiding artillery and missile strikes with pinpoint accuracy.
- Counter-Drone Operations: FPV drones can detect and neutralize enemy UAVs, helping to maintain air superiority on the battlefield.
FPV drones offer a cost-effective alternative to expensive guided munitions, making them a key asset in Ukraine’s defense strategy. Their ability to operate in GPS-jammed environments and their adaptability to urban warfare scenarios have significantly enhanced Ukraine’s combat effectiveness.
