Ukraine Plans to Launch 1,000 Long-Range Drones Per Day Against Russia

Ukraine plans to increase production of long-range drones to 1,000 per day. Currently, an average of 300 are produced daily.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky made this announcement on August 28 following a meeting of the Headquarters of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief.

According to Zelensky, the meeting also addressed strengthening Ukraine’s defense against Russian attacks and developing air defense capabilities.

“The goal is 1,000 drones per day for long-range strikes against Russia. Currently, we’re averaging 300. The number must be increased. We have a very specific goal, and we will accomplish this task,” the head of state said.

In April, French analyst Clément Molin reviewed statements from the Russian Defense Ministry and the Ukrainian Air Force and found that Ukraine launches an average of 237 drones per day into Russian territory.

According to Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine’s long-range strikes are already causing problems for the Russian economy and logistics, in particular leading to a reduction in gasoline reserves and exports.

The head of state also noted that, for the first time in history, Russia has begun importing gasoline, and its budget is spending funds to support oil companies. According to Zelensky, scaling up Ukraine’s long-range capabilities will allow for increased pressure on Russia if it continues the war and refuses to negotiate its end.

Separately, the president emphasized the need to accelerate the production of interceptor drones, particularly to counter the jet-powered Shahed drones, which Russia has been using more frequently of late.

“It is important that there be a significant acceleration in the production of interceptors, specifically against the jet-powered Shahed drones” Zelensky noted.

According to Reuters, by the end of August, gasoline production in Russia had fallen to approximately 80,000 metric tons per day, while domestic demand stood at about 115,000 metric tons.

Due to the shortage, restrictions on fuel sales have been reimposed in a number of regions.