Ukraine and Russia Turn to Robotics in Prolonged Conflict

As the war reaches 1,000 days, both nations increasingly rely on drones and AI to reduce human casualties.

The conflict has spurred rapid innovation in Ukraine's defense sector, with over 800 new companies focusing on drones and anti-drone technology.
Both Ukraine and Russia are producing approximately 1.5 million drones annually, significantly impacting battlefield strategies.
Ukraine's military-industrial sector has expanded its production capacity from $1 billion in 2022 to $20 billion in 2024, though financial constraints limit full utilization.
Automation and remote warfare, including AI, are becoming central to military tactics, reducing the need for human soldiers on the front lines.
Ukrainian defense manufacturers face challenges such as profit margin restrictions and a wartime ban on arms exports, prompting some to consider relocating operations abroad.