Ukraine’s domestic drone production surged in 2024, comprising 96.2% of all UAVs used by the Defence Forces. This significant increase, driven by Ministry of Defence orders, included a wide range of UAV types, from FPV drones to long-range strike drones. Over 1.5 million FPV drones alone were produced, showcasing a highly effective state-industry collaboration. This success underscores the growth of Ukraine’s defense industry and will continue to be prioritized in 2025.
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Ukrainian intelligence recently provided Syrian rebels with approximately 150 FPV drones and 20 operators to aid in attacks against Russian and Syrian forces. This covert operation, though playing a modest role in the overall Syrian conflict, represents a broader Ukrainian effort to undermine Russian interests globally. While not a secret, the Ukrainian actions were reportedly unknown to senior Biden administration officials. Similar operations have targeted Russian mercenaries in Mali, resulting in significant casualties and severed diplomatic ties between Ukraine and Mali.
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Ukrainian forces, spearheaded by the 48th Separate Assault Battalion, liberated Novy Komar village in Donetsk Oblast from Russian occupation on December 4th, inflicting heavy casualties and capturing enemy marines. The successful operation leveraged effective assault infantry tactics and significant support from FPV drone teams. Simultaneously, Ukrainian troops repelled a Russian bridgehead attempt near Novomlynsk in Kharkiv Oblast, maintaining control of the Oskil River’s west bank. Both victories demonstrate continued Ukrainian success in pushing back Russian forces.
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On November 30th, the Third Assault Brigade destroyed a North Korean Bulsae-4 self-propelled anti-tank missile system in Kharkiv Oblast using FPV drones. The operation, documented in a released video, also resulted in the destruction of Russian vehicles and inflicted casualties on Russian infantry. This engagement highlights the growing involvement of North Korean military assets in the conflict, with reports suggesting thousands of North Korean soldiers are operating in Russia and receiving weapons and resources in exchange for their participation. The use of the Bulsae-4, a long-range anti-tank system, underscores the escalating nature of the conflict.
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John Q. Hosedrinker