The Ground Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine have officially announced the creation of a new unmanned systems directorate named the Drone Forces. This unit was formed to carry out specific and high-tech tasks in the interests of combined-arms units. Command of the new structure has been entrusted to Colonel Andriy Ostapenko, who presented the development concept at a special press conference in Kyiv.
Goals, Tasks, and Status of the New Unit
As Colonel Andriy Ostapenko emphasized, the Drone Forces are not a separate independent branch of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, but rather an internal brand of the Ground Forces. The creation of the directorate aims to strengthen technological potential and integrate unmanned systems into daily combat operations. The units are involved in both defensive and offensive operations, as well as carrying out important logistical missions and infantry support tasks on the front line. The slogan of the new formation—"On the ground, in the air, everywhere"—reflects the comprehensive nature of their work.
Interaction with Unmanned Systems Forces and Absence of Competition
One of the key topics of the press conference was the demarcation of responsibilities with the already existing Unmanned Systems Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The command assured that there is no duplication of functions or direct competition between the agencies. The Ground Forces Unmanned Systems Directorate operates exclusively at the tactical and operational levels in the interests of combined-arms formations, introducing an end-to-end management vertical.
Technological Breakthrough and Standards of Modern Warfare
Experts and participants in the event note that the emergence of the Drone Forces within the Ground Forces allows for instantaneous combat decision-making, minimizing personnel losses, and ensuring technological superiority on every meter of the front. In parallel, the Ukrainian army is actively introducing other innovations: in particular, robotic turrets are already being used to destroy Russian jet drones, and specialized UAV and ground robotic systems battalions are being formed in Territorial Defense brigades.
