Russia ramps up drone production in garages and basements: 'There is no escape from them'

Russia's aviation industry is experiencing a dramatic surge in production, with output increasing by 78% in the first four months of this year, according to official data. This remarkable growth is primarily fueled by the escalating demand for drones, transforming the sector into a key area of industrial expansion amidst the ongoing conflict.

The substantial rise in aviation production, which encompasses both crewed military aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), significantly outpaces the overall growth in the defense industry, which saw a 16% increase. In stark contrast, Russia's civilian manufacturing sector has experienced a decline of nearly 3%.

“

FPV drones are today one of the main features of ground combat. Because of them, any concentration of forces is dangerous and can be a target even kilometers from the contact line itself, on both sides of the front.

This trend underscores Moscow's adaptation to the economic and military demands of the war in Ukraine. As the production and efficiency of conventional armor like tanks reach their limits, inexpensive and adaptable drone systems, including first-person view (FPV) drones, have become one of the few Russian industrial sectors capable of rapid expansion.

Experts note that FPV drones are now a defining feature of ground combat, making troop concentrations vulnerable even far from the front lines. Long-range drones also allow Moscow to supplement its dwindling stockpiles of cruise missiles and continue strikes against Ukraine's critical national infrastructure. Russia is also establishing new, dedicated drone units, a move ordered by President Vladimir Putin in mid-2025. While specific production quantities remain undisclosed, Putin has previously cited a figure of 1.4 million drones produced in 2024. Ukraine's military intelligence estimates suggest Russia plans to produce 7.3 million FPV drones and 7.8 million drone warheads in 2026.

“

Long-range drones have enabled Moscow to supplement its far smaller stockpiles of land-attack cruise missiles and to continue its campaign against Ukraine's key national infrastructure.