Ukrainian forces are testing new weapons to counter Russian aerial bombs and drones. According to the Ukrainian General Staff, up to 100 enemy guided bombs were destroyed between September and November 2023, but this does not fully resolve the air dominance issue.
Western media, particularly the Wall Street Journal, report that Russian forces have gained a tactical edge in drone operations on the front line. In some critical areas, Russian drones outnumber Ukrainian ones by ten to one. Ukraine's main challenge is not technological lag but a shortage of resources and trained drone operators.
The Financial Times reported that a leading Chinese drone component supplier acquired a 5% stake in a Russian FPV drone manufacturer used in the conflict. According to investigations, Chinese partners have helped produce over 1.2 million drones and provided manufacturing equipment.
Ukrainian representatives note that some Russian claims may be exaggerated to undermine morale. Not all drones are operational; some are lost due to technical issues or countered by defense systems. Both sides are innovating countermeasures, including engineering barriers and defenses at frontline positions.
Ukraine is currently expanding the number of trained drone operators, establishing new military units, and has announced the recruitment of 15,000 additional specialists in this field. Experts emphasize that the development of drones and countermeasures is ongoing, with success depending on rapid training and resource provision.
